Faster upload of National Library needed
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Re: "National Library archive online in three years", National, November 6.
As part of the government’s policy to promote a digital economy the National Library has pledged to make its entire archive available online in the next three years.
Three years is far too long. Problems of red tape, copyright and conservation work needed on ancient books have been cited for the delay. However, the vital work of transferring the nation’s treasure store of knowledge could be speeded up by private sector-style management.
At the very least, the National Library is in urgent need of more funds for the information-technology side of it service, in order to fulfil the role of a modern library.
Bringing libraries around the country into the digital world could also help boost what is now just a trickle of visitors to a healthy flow of readers using this service.
The National Library could start by improving its website to make it more stimulating and up-to-date. The website is, after all, many people’s first “window” on the library and it should motivate them to become regular users.
Sutipunt Bongsununt
Kanchanaburi
