This book explains the rapidly changing, complex flow of information in the context of 21st-century culture, policy, technology, and economics-an essential resource for librarians and information specialists in all types of settings.

The role of information professionals today is to interact creatively with clientele: to help them navigate the information infrastructure. Shattering the concept of the library as a place, Evolving Global Information Infrastructure and Information Transfer describes the library as transformed to a dynamic virtual presence in the information infrastructure, where people are the most important resources in a digital library or information center-not the collections.

Instead of focusing on specific technologies, which are always changing, this book examines the big picture of how information is created, recorded, mass produced, distributed, and utilized in society. This unique approach enables readers to better understand how they fit into this changing world, to envision their place in the digital age, and to assume a leadership role that ensures the success of their clients as well as themselves. This standout work is ideally suited for all types of librarians, educators, information workers, members of the research community, and policymakers in public and private sector organizations.

Presents a big picture understanding of the information infrastructure in our complex, rapidly changing world

Trace changes over time in the people, organizations, policies, processes, and technologies that comprise the information infrastructure

Explores future trends in the information infrastructure and examines the implications for library and information professionals and for their education