Information economics and libraries in the digital age

Describes how technology is rapidly changing the way information is distributed and paid for. Libraries face the risk that they will be cut from the loop that includes publishers and information consumers. Libraries must take an active role in experimenting with emerging technology and trends in the economics and distribution of information. If they do so, they stand to maintain their strong position as collection builders and organizers, and to continue their tradition of excellence in providing access to information for their users. Highlights a number of issues that need to be addressed as libraries make the transition from paper to digital: funding models, fee versus free use of information, and the infrastructure of digital economy. Explores the role that electronic money may have in those libraries in more depth.