Cloud computing for information management and use in the 21st century library

Abstract

Librarians are applying different platforms for user services and attaining exceeding satisfaction for information management and use in this Web based era. Cloud computing presents an advantage for libraries. It is providing several opportunities for libraries to link their services, use and manage information on the cloud. Cloud computing is the new type of service provided on the Internet, which has exclusively changed the way computers are used irrespective of geographical barriers to manage and use information. The paper examines cloud computing as a tool for information management and use in the 21st century library. The discourse is about the concept of cloud computing, models of cloud computing and the service, which include IaaS, PaaS and SaaS. The paper also discusses cloud. The paper also discusses cloud deployment storage models in private, community, public, hybrid and personal cloud. Information management concept are highlighted, alongside applications of cloud computing for information management and usage in the 21st century libraries. Benefits of using cloud computing for information management in the 21st century libraries including the risks associated with cloud computing for information management and use in the 21st century libraries. Concluding, the discourse opines that today libraries are shifting to cloud computing technology to process data correctly and quickly. Cloud based services are helping libraries by creating digital libraries, social networking and enhance information sharing. Though, problems regarding data security, privacy, reliability and legal rights have not been fully taken care of. All information personnel must be aware of these issues before choosing cloud based services. Despite these issues, cloud based technology is an incredible development that can improve data management and usage in libraries and offer dependable, rapid services to its users. The study recommends that base on the importance and relevance of cloud computing technology, that it should be applied in library services to manage and use information must especially university libraries in Nigeria.