From information gateway to digital library management
system: a case analysis
Karen Calhoun
107D Olin Library, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
Abstract
This paper discusses the design, implementation and evolution of the Cornell University Library
Gateway using the case analysis method. It diagnoses the Gateway within the conceptual framework
of definitions and best practices associated with information gateways, portals, and emerging digital
library management systems, in particular the product ENCompass. © 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All
rights reserved.
Keywords: Information gateways; Portals; Digital library management systems; Metadata; Cornell University
Library Gateway; ENCompass
1. Introduction
Using the case analysis method, this paper sets forth the facts and organizational circum-
stances surrounding the design, implementation, and evolution of the Cornell University
Library Gateway—the networked information space that presents the Library’s collections,
digital assets, Web sites, and services to its users (http://campusgw.library.cornell.edu/). The
purpose of the case analysis is to expose a broad set of issues, decisions and alternatives
associated with building the Gateway and watching it change over time. Such an exercise can
be expected to help those who are designing their own organization’s networked information
spaces.
The paper first lays out a conceptual framework of definitions and best practices reported
in selected current literature on information gateways, portals, and digital library manage-
ment systems. It then offers a diagnosis of the Library’s evolving networked information
space through the lens of that framework. My primary intent in writing is to exchange ideas
E-mail address: ksc10@cornell.edu (K. Calhoun).
Pergamon
Library Collections, Acquisitions,
& Technical Services 26 (2002) 141–150
1464-9055/02/$ – see front matter © 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
PII: S1464-9055(02)00226-9