Linking Online Learning Environments with Digital Libraries: Institutional Issues in the UK

Abstract

This article discusses the institutional challenges and requirements involved in integrating online learning environments with digital and hybrid libraries within the framework of INSPIRAL's (INvestigating Portals for Information Resources And Learning) research. It concentrates on the key issues that were identified as being of institutional significance in the integration of new learning environments and digital library resources. Issues of institutional infrastructure and politics, inter-professional communication and collaboration, resources and funding, pedagogy, staff development, access and content are discussed in the light of INSPIRAL research. The article concludes that, interested parties view integration of online learning environments into digital library resources and services as an area of importance within the UK education sector. The prime barriers continue to be located within individual institutions and their approach and attitudes to integration. However, there is a general consensus that improved collaboration and communication at all professional levels with adequate training and staff development could be the answer to many of these problems.