Band 31, Heft 4

With the combined Academic, Regional, and Public Library, which was opened in October 2011 a new project was started in Germany which really fulfills the role of a prototype. The integration of the rather different types of libraries in one building is a real challenge. Described are the planning and constructional reflections as well as the necessary steps towards the realization of the project.

First a brief overview of Cloud Computing and its applications in libraries is presented. It is indicated that Cloud Computing intends the internet based outsourcing of applications, data, and processes. Cloud Computing technology allows the realization of internet based libraries. Also some consequences of Cloud Computing for libraries are mentioned. It is indicated that Cloud Computing applications can cause a lot of changes and also a lot of urgently to solve problems. Furthermore the actual state of the art is presented. In the final part two special aspects of Cloud Computing in libraries are regarded and a brief perspective of future developments is given.

On July 21 st 2011 Kassel's University Library stayed open for the whole night. The students were invited to take part in a row of activities concerning writing academic texts. Over 355 students took the opportunity to work in the library and participate in the different activities. The night was a big success, it is planned to offer it again next summer.