Even if a library or information services program has no physical space, planning for and maintaining a virtual information services program is equally as important. As noted in a 2020 journal article:
[T]hose of us who handily let go of the battles over space are better prepared to think more daringly about how to push services forward. A comprehensive pivot toward services that emphasize our own activism yields exciting results, particularly in online working groups. With no library space to oversee, we may find ourselves embedded everywhere in the organization. This is a huge opportunity, but it is not always perceived as one. Online life is noisier than ever, but our message is simple: We have the answers, and we can help you find them.
Acquiring access to relevant databases, journals and other electronic resources, and digitizing physical resources are key steps in moving from an emphasis on print collections to a more robust online presence. A commitment to resource sharing through interlibrary loan and document delivery will also significantly broaden the reach of a virtual library.
Moving to an all-digital collection requires careful planning and, if wishing to include a wide range of licensed electronic resources, a significant commitment of funds for ongoing support of the collection.
Æ Refer to the Information Management and Digitization Quick Guides for more information.
Ohio DOT’s online Research Library is maintained by the agency’s research program and includes final reports, newsletters, project dashboards, and archived and other information.
Oklahoma DOT created a statewide digital transportation information resource to complement its physical presence. Launched in 2021, the Oklahoma Transportation Virtual Library (see box above) is maintained by the University of Oklahoma, which owns and maintains the library catalog, stores the digitized items and maintains a website.
Wisconsin DOT seeks to create a similar virtual information resource—a “one-stop shop”—that would be maintained by the transportation agency. Wisconsin DOT would own and operate the library catalog, store digital information and maintain the webpage. This type of development of a robust, continually expanding online statewide transportation information resource may signal a future trend for transportation libraries.
Source: Oklahoma Department of Transportation
Clickable arrows offer a self-guided tour of the virtual library.