Application of Cloud Computing in Libraries

In present scenario, web enabled technologies developed on virtual platforms and generating large opportunities and virtual paths to use their services for the various purposes. Nowadays, cloud computing is emerged as one of the most popular virtual technology for libraries to deliver the services in an effective manner. Cloud computing contains features of different technologies including utility computing, grid computing, unified computing, web 2.0, service oriented architecture and so on. Cloud computing technology is offering great advantages for libraries to connect their services not only promptly but also in new formats with the flexibilities such as pay as you use model, access any where any time and so on. Nowadays libraries are using cloud computing technology for enhancing the services by adding more values, attracting the users and cost effectiveness. In the cloud computing environment, clouds are vast resource pools with on demand resource allocation and a collection of networked features. The new concept of cloud and libraries has generated a new model called cloud libraries. Though the usages of cloud computing may vary with the libraries nature, services and information needs but most common usages of cloud computing with in libraries can be development of digital libraries, corporate cataloging, acquisition, storages and sharing the resources on virtual environment on the web. The need of cloud computing may occur due to the information explosion, problems in accessing the information, save the time of the users and staff, resource sharing problems, problems in library resources management, complex demand of users and attraction of users towards cutting edge technologies.