Digital Resources
Digital Resources refers to any materials that libraries provide in electronic format, such as e-books, online databases, digital magazines, and research tools. In modern libraries, these have become just as important as traditional paper books. Library staff who work with digital resources help users access and use these online materials, maintain subscriptions, and teach others how to make the most of these tools. You might also see this called "electronic resources," "e-resources," or "digital collections." This role combines traditional library skills with modern technology understanding.
Examples in Resumes
Managed and maintained over 50 Digital Resources subscriptions for university library system
Trained staff and students in the use of Digital Resources and Electronic Resources
Evaluated and selected new E-Resources for the library's collection based on user needs
Created user guides for popular Digital Collections and Digital Resources
Typical job title: "Digital Resources Librarians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Digital Resources Librarians
Professional Associations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle budget negotiations with vendors for digital resource subscriptions?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss experience with vendor negotiations, understanding of licensing terms, budget management, and strategies for getting the best value for the library's investment. They should mention usage statistics analysis and consortium buying options.
Q: How do you evaluate the success of digital resource implementations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss methods of gathering user feedback, analyzing usage statistics, cost-per-use calculations, and ways to measure user satisfaction and engagement with digital resources.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps would you take to promote digital resources to library users?
Expected Answer: Should describe creating user guides, conducting training sessions, using social media, collaborating with faculty or teachers, and developing marketing materials to increase awareness and usage.
Q: How do you handle technical issues with digital resources?
Expected Answer: Should explain troubleshooting process, working with vendors, documenting problems and solutions, and communicating with users about access issues.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What experience do you have with common library databases?
Expected Answer: Should be familiar with popular research databases, understand basic navigation and search techniques, and have experience helping users access these resources.
Q: How would you assist a user who is having trouble accessing an e-book?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate customer service skills, basic troubleshooting steps, and knowledge of common access issues like login problems or device compatibility.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of library databases
- User assistance and basic troubleshooting
- Creating simple user guides
- Understanding of basic copyright rules
Mid (2-5 years)
- Resource troubleshooting and problem resolution
- User training and promotion
- Usage statistics analysis
- Vendor communication
Senior (5+ years)
- Budget management and vendor negotiations
- Collection development strategy
- Project management
- Staff training and supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with common library databases or e-resource platforms
- Poor customer service skills or communication abilities
- Lack of attention to detail in managing subscriptions and access
- No understanding of basic copyright and licensing concepts
