CORDIS Archive

Telematics for Libraries - Projects

VERITY

Updated: 22 NOV 99

Action Line

Action line C: Library services for access to networked information resources

Call Topic(s)

Call Topic 8-9-10 bis: Adding value to networked information services delivered through libraries

Project description

VERITY explores new ways of providing virtual library services for teenagers that are creative, stimulating and educational. Based partly on results of the CHILIAS project, VERITY will design a system to help these users with their information enquiries, in a context which encourages the development and understanding of information seeking skills. VERITY's 'Virtual Librarian' will teach young people to find and manage information held in libraries and on electronic networks.

Technical approach

The project will use Web technology to develop the 'Virtual Librarian', an intelligent system comprising:

• An enquiry system - using an interactive interview process to direct users to the information they require.
• A skills component, based on a learning dialogue explaining the in-formation seeking process.
• A referral service, to forward unanswered queries to a transnational mediated SIG.

A detailed concept for the technology and content will be developed from an initial user needs analysis. Joint development of the core system will result in demonstrators in each of the five participating countries, with a common base and local variations, according to the needs of language, subject and target group.

Key issues

The key issues are in the areas of usability and organisational change and impact, including:

• Investigation of a new service model and impact on traditional functions (e.g. improvement in service quality).
• Investigation of how the new technologies can improve the study and information skills of young people.
• Guidance and staff training required to implement such services.

Impact

VERITY will result in a prototype tool that can be exploited and integrated in other areas (e.g. schools, home use) as well as adapted for other users groups and different enquiry services. It will enable users of libraries and those seeking information to take advantage of 'professional' skills, without being tied to location and opening hours. However, by being made available also within public libraries, it provides a tool and opportunity accessible to all.

In line with the 1996 report on the "Information Society, Culture and Education", produced by the Committee on Culture, Youth, Education and the Media, successful implementation of VERITY can improve the relevance and attractiveness of European library services to teenagers.
As a test bed, VERITY will demonstrate and promote access to the new information society technologies, while enabling young people to more easily identify, locate and use information. Two commercial companies have al-ready expressed interest in commercialising aspects of VERITY.

Deliverables

The main public deliverables will be:

• User needs analysis report
• Specification of the 'Virtual Librarian' software
• Prototypes in different country versions and documentation
• Annual review reports
• Project final report.

Coordinator

Other Partners

• Image recognition research;