Typically, a library is the structure in which a collection of sources, resources and services are housed. These resources are organised for use and are maintained by an institution, public body or a private individual. Traditionally libraries are considered as a collection of books. The term 'library' can refer to both the building in which these books are housed or the actually collection of books itself. In more modern terms 'library' has acquired a secondary meaning of a collection of useful material that is available for common use. This meaning of the term is used in fields such as mathematics, statistics, computer science and other areas where the resources that are collected are not just restricted to books. The term 'library' is sometimes used by publishers when they are naming a series of related books. For example, 'The Library of Anglo-Catholic Theology'.
Individuals, who either cannot afford to or choose not to purchase an extensive collection of these resources themselves, often use libraries that contain public and institutional collections and services. This is particularly the case when an individual needs material that a person is not reasonable expected to own or if they require professional assistance with their research. The latter is resolved by the provision of librarians in most public libraries. These libraries are expects are locating and organising information as well as interpreting information needs. Students who are looking for a quiet place can use the silent area provided and monitored by most libraries.
The libraries that are found today are significantly different and contain a huge array of resources. They can be access points for audio, print and visual materials in a number of formats including documents, audio tapes, CDs, DVDs, maps and microform. Modern libraries will often have public facilities to allow individuals to access electronic resources and the internet.
Individuals, who either cannot afford to or choose not to purchase an extensive collection of these resources themselves, often use libraries that contain public and institutional collections and services. This is particularly the case when an individual needs material that a person is not reasonable expected to own or if they require professional assistance with their research. The latter is resolved by the provision of librarians in most public libraries. These libraries are expects are locating and organising information as well as interpreting information needs. Students who are looking for a quiet place can use the silent area provided and monitored by most libraries.
The libraries that are found today are significantly different and contain a huge array of resources. They can be access points for audio, print and visual materials in a number of formats including documents, audio tapes, CDs, DVDs, maps and microform. Modern libraries will often have public facilities to allow individuals to access electronic resources and the internet.