The Libraries and Information Market Programmes of the Commission of the European Communities

Abstract

As Europe becomes a global force, it needs to compete with other trade blocs in the numerous players, of which libraries are one. This has been acknowledged by the CEC's Library Action Programme, initiated in 1985, which covered the creation of machine-readable bibliographies and retroconversion of library catalogues, interconnection of automated systems, innovative library services using new information technology, the development of commercial products etc, for libraries, and exchange of knowledge and experience. The national libraries project has made most progress. In 1991 a further Libraries Programme began, with similar objectives; from many proposals, 14 have been retained. The IMPACT 1 programme (1988) was concerned with the information services market – multimedia databases, networking for shared access to information, electronic document delivery, and development of the market for optical disc products. This programme, which has so far not met with much success, is being followed by IMPACT 2 (approved 1991), which aims on a reduced budget to create a favourable climate for the information services market: improving the understanding of the market, overcoming legal and administrative barriers, increasing the user-friendliness of services, and support for strategic information initiatives. There are a number of specific steps that could be taken to make progress towards the objectives, which would justify a large budget. Moreover, the limited funds should be used to foster pan-European information services, notably in business, finance and law. Related CEC programmes (including ESPRIT and EUREKA) are not well coordinated, and there are several weaknesses, from bureaucracy to a lack of measurement of results. Overall aims of CEC information programmes include developing a European information policy, fostering the information industry as a growth sector, and encouraging existing suppliers to extend their products into global ones. There are good market opportunities, but many challenges to be faced.