Abstract:

Data and systems migration is a progressively necessary component of librarianship in the technological age; and cloud computing promises to make advancements and innovations more accessible to libraries and their patrons at less cost. This paper explores the advantages of migrating library data and systems under the cloud computing model [1]. In its broadest sense, the cloud represents the removal of ownership from the equation of offering the latest and best technological storage capabilities within the library. However, the cloud brings a swarm of new quandaries from data security to patron privacy [2]. With the copious ways to use cloud services, libraries must consider their particular needs and goals when determining if, and to what extent, the cloud is the right option for them. This paper examines the benefits and disadvantages of migrating over the cloud and considers the implications of this new form of computing for future librarians [3].

References:
[1] Zhu, Q. (2004). 2 Critical stages for a successful ILS migration: System profiling and data conversion. Computers in Libraries, 24(3), 26-30.
[2] Han, Y. (2010). On the clouds: A new way of computing. Information Technology and Libraries, 29(2), 87-92.
[3] Erl, T., Puttini, R., & Mahmood, Z. (2013). Cloud Computing: Concepts, Technology & Architecture. Pearson Education.

Keywords:

Libraries, cloud computing, systems migration, data conversion.