Digital Library Services Expand

Digital Library Services (DLS) was created as a unit of Washington University Libraries in 2006. Much of the work of DLS during its first year and a half was focused on creating infrastructure—both organizational and technological—to support local digital projects. During the 2006-2007 academic year, Digital Library Services consulted on existing digital projects, developed local and faculty projects, and created the Washington University Digital Gateway.

Until recently, DLS functioned with only two staff members. As digital projects began to take shape, however, the need for additional staff members increased, and two new positions for DLS were approved. In anticipation of this increase in staff, the DLS office in Olin Library was expanded.

In August 2007, DLS hired Shannon Showers as Digital Projects Assistant. In her new position, Shannon provides support for DLS projects. An alumna of Washington University (Bachelor of Fine Arts, 2004), Shannon completed an internship in DLS and another unit of the University Libraries during this past summer. As an intern, Shannon quickly developed an understanding of digital libraries and the skills necessary for developing digital library content. To further her expertise in this area, Shannon is pursuing a Master of Arts in Library Sciences degree at the University of Missouri. Shannon brings to DLS experience in graphic design and illustration, as well as customer service. She made an excellent impression during her internship, and she has already made significant contributions in her short time as Digital Projects Assistant.

DLS is currently conducting a search for a Metadata Librarian. When DLS began to establish an infrastructure for digital projects, a subcommittee on metadata was created to set standards for digital projects hosted by the library, with the understanding that those standards could then be adapted for use across the University. Hiring a Metadata Librarian will allow for the expansion of this work by a full-time staff member with extensive knowledge of standards and implementation and the ability to translate abstract principles into achievable practices.

While DLS has accomplished a great deal since its creation, the expansion of DLS staff and office space will allow DLS to accomplish even more. The DLS staff looks forward to continuing to develop the capacity to manage and assist with digital projects at Washington University.