Abstract: This chapter presents a global view based on the responses from all continents to the questionnaires of a survey described in the chapter. By commencing with the international role of national libraries and proceeding through their roles in coordination, in the development of resource-sharing networks, in research and development, in the provision of information services, and in the development of international and national collections, it is possible to discuss the type of legislation necessary for the national libraries to promote universal access to information. The survey described in the chapter was, therefore, directed at governments; for it is their responsibility to ensure that legislation is adequate to meet national needs. But UNESCO, IFLA, and the Conference of Directors of National Libraries have all responsibilities to assist national governments in their own specialist ways. The development of computer-based services, and in particular those being pioneered by institutions like the US National Library of Medicine, will increasingly make available the information contained in publications. Libraries must plan their services so that, in addition to their important bibliographical and conservation roles, they also become centers where specific pieces of information may be easily retrieved.
Publication Year: 1982
Publication Date: 1982-01-01
Language: en
Type: book-chapter
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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