With this issue Journal of Internet Cataloging begins an exciting new feature called Profiles in Digital Information edited by Laurel Jizba. In the form of an interview Profiles in Digital Information highlights the people involved with new developments in the organization of and access to Internet resources, their perspectives, philosophies and what they are working on now. The initial interview is with Susan Dumais a Senior Researcher at Microsoft Research. The ongoing “42” column reflects on search engines, directories and other Web navigation wonders (or were they blunders?)
Two articles examine divergent topics. One treats classification practice and implications for subject directories of the Chinese language Web-based digital library. The second provides encouragement and advice on integrating Internet Resources into OPACs.
A member of JIC’s Editorial Board reviews “Human Response to Technology” a theme issue of Library Trends. The News from the Field column completes the issue. In some cases the events covered were past when included in the News column: others had not taken place at the time the column was written. Because this column appears online shortly after going to production much of the information is still timely even when it may seem dated in print. And, even after the fact the News From the Field provides a useful overview and historical record of the many events and activities in the dynamic field of Internet cataloging, access and organization. Gerry McKiernan, the column’s editor, does a service to both current and future readers in pulling this information together.
The many promises and opportunities that abound today in our world of the Internet forecast an era of unprecedented riches for librarianship. Casey Palowitch in his book review in this issue remarks that as we approach the decade mark of the Internet era we are in what should be recognized as a “golden age of librarianship.” He argues that “at no previous time in history have librarians had the opportunity to work so effectively, to bring so many quality tools and so much integrated knowledge to bear in the service of their patrons.” In that spirit we should welcome the challenges inherent in creating order out of the chaos of the Internet and its resources, delight in the globalized information world we inhabit, and greet the new millenium with excitement and optimism. What a great time to be alive!
- Ruth C. Carter