4.1   What is an electronic Library?

An electronic library is a compendium or repository of digital information or resources that is organized, stored searched and retrieved for learning and research in the Internet or networked environment via specialized software. The information stored can be in different forms such as text, images, audios and videos. Other synonymous terms for electronic library are digital library, digital repository or virtual library.

 

According to Wikipedia (2014)

An electronic library (also referred to as digital library or digital repository) is a focused collection of digital objects that can include text, visual material, audio material, video material, stored as electronic media formats (as opposed to print, micro form, or other media), along with means for organizing, storing, and retrieving the files and media contained in the library collection. Digital libraries can vary immensely in size and scope, and can be maintained by individuals, organizations, or affiliated with established physical library buildings or institutions, or with academic institutions. The electronic content may be stored locally, or accessed remotely via computer networks. An electronic library is a type of information retrieval system

 

The electronic library differs from Traditional Library. While in electronic library all resources are stored and retrieved in a digital form, the traditional library itself organizes the information in print media.