Distinctive Expertise: Multimedia, the Library, and the Term Paper of the Future

Abstract

Multimedia will have a profound effect on libraries duringthe next decade. This rapidly developing technology permits the user to combine digital still images, video, animation, graphics, and audio. It can be delivered in a variety offinished formats, including streaming video on the Web,video on DVD/VCD, embedded digital objects within aWeb page or presentation software such as PowerPoint,utilized within graphic designs, or printed as hardcopy.This article examines the elements of multimedia creation,as well as requirements and recommendations for implementing a multimedia facility in the library.