The Web Library: Building a World‐Class Personal Library with Free Web Resources

Citation

Cronau, D. (2004), "The Web Library: Building a World‐Class Personal Library with Free Web Resources", Online Information Review, Vol. 28 No. 5, pp. 381-381. https://doi.org/10.1108/14684520410564361

I know it sounds like a cheap ad, but “if you only buy one book this year this has to be the one!” This book is invaluable, both personally, and professionally and to absolutely any and every library. Seldom do you come across a book that you cannot put down and would never give away. The continually updated Website supporting the links discussed in the book make this a very sound investment. It will save you money!

The nine chapter headings, each divided into around a dozen sub‐headings, really spell it all out:

1. 1.

   Free articles and indexes: can you afford not to use them?

2. 2.

   All the news that fits and a few gigs more.

3. 3.

   Ready or not: reference on the Web.

4. 4.

   Reference Part II: expert, AskA, and digital reference services.

5. 5.

   Books in the Web library.

6. 6.

   When image is everything – pictures on the Web.

7. 7.

   Pixels at an exhibition – museums and art.

8. 8.

   Software keys to the Web library.

9. 9.

   Final considerations and conclusions.

There are many figures and examples, and the book concludes with an appendix of referenced Websites. The author monitors the sites and, through the accompanying Web pages, keeps interested readers up‐to‐date with the appearance, disappearance and reappearance of resources as they evolve.

Most importantly, the subjects and disciplines considered in this book are also excellent – legal, astronomical, medical, theological, educational, juvenile, etc. Even Lonely Plant gets a mention in the extensive Index.

This book is like having your own private librarian, or an extra person on staff. It is invaluable, interesting, educational, and the best reference resource you'll ever consider in this price range. Can I say it more clearly? This is a must‐have for all libraries.