Innovation during evolution: Document Supply Service digitises library collections

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the development of digitisation practices at the National Library of Australia Document Supply Service, its convergence with similar efforts in the Library's Digitisation and Photography Branch, and how the Library used Relais to manage and report on its digitisation activities. Design/methodology/approach – The authors use a case study approach and their own personal experiences with implementing these services. Findings – Digitisation based on ILL/DD user demand contributes to building a library's digital collections and helps to preserve valuable collections. Libraries are encouraged to seize opportunities that help to achieve its strategic goals, experiment with new and different approaches and technologies, persevere in the face of obstacles or slow uptake of ideas and solutions, and never stop looking for opportunities to improve user services. Originality/value – This paper was originally presented at the IFLA World Library and Information Congress, 79th IFLA General Conference and Assembly, 17-23 August 2013, Singapore, Session 200, “Strengthening Access to Information: The Future of Resource Sharing”.