Visionary thinkers reflect on key aspects of the contemporary information landscape in Networks and Resource Sharing in the 21st Century. In this thought-provoking volume, contributing authors provide multiple lenses from different industry viewpoints to help readers understand current opportunities and challenges facing information providers and their organizations. These authors provide analysis, propose inventions, cite barriers, and target opportunities, stimulating readers to devise solutions appropriate to their personal situations. The book considers the changing face of resource sharing within the context of a rapidly exploding information landscape, and it investigates critical dimensions of network developments as they relate to access and delivery of data and "documents" in multiple media. It helps readers understand the escalating changes which are irrevocably altering their professional environment and information access choices. Networks and Resource Sharing in the 21st Century is divided into three sections. Contextual Viewpoints sets the stage for considering the subject. Converging Technologies discusses converging computing and telecommunications technologies which promise to transform information systems as they are known today. Musts, Can?ts, and Myths investigates implications of today?s emerging trends for information professionals'futures. Topics addressed in individual chapters include:

an examination of the library environment and the work of librarians in the emerging digital world
models of strategic issue analysis and their applicability to past, present, and future issues related to library networking
the effect of multimedia technology on sharing of resources, and issues and barriers associated with multimedia
sci-tech information resources and information networks in Western Europe
the future of bibliographic utilities
the future of digital collectionsNetworks and Resource Sharing in the 21st Century provides a much-needed context to aid readers as they shape the resource sharing environment of tomorrow. It is a stimulating guide for practicing librarians, MLS students, and network staff as they strive to make libraries and information centers a vital part of the future.