Cloud Computing and Libraries

While trying to get my head around the whole entire concept of cloud computing, it became quite clear to me that cloud computing is a revelation for the IT industry that has irrevocably changed the way in which computing will work into the future. For me, the positives and advantages of cloud computing seem to outweigh the negatives completely. Cloud computing is where, instead of buying separate servers and storing data on each one, data is stored on a cloud server. This cloud server can be accessed anywhere, and therefore hardware and software can be installed to the server, not individual computers.

A key advantage of cloud computing is the obvious and important aspect of saving a considerable amount of money from only having the server space that you require at any one time. Plainly, you only pay for what you are using at any one time. The cloud server expands, as does the cost of the service, when your user traffic is high and therefore more space in your system is required and it then contracts when traffic drops off, as does the amount of money you pay. A second advantage is the speed and flexibility in which server space can be changed. Previously, if you required more space on your server, you would have to buy a new one and then take the effort and time to set it up correctly. Now, the cloud server automatically recognises your need for more space and no time is wasted for anyone accessing your servers.

Libraries need to embrace the idea of cloud computing as it will be able to significantly change the way in which libraries can provide services to their patrons. Web 2.0 services like Twitter, Facebook and Wikipedia (which are now used daily by many libraries) are examples of how cloud computing is essentially taking over the internet. A feature, which I believe will cause the most problems in the way of cloud computing will be the gaps in security that comes from not having a secure server of your own. As the information is stored remotely, you cannot ensure the security of information, especially since the main idea of cloud computing is making everything easily accessible - something you don't want for personal information.

Still, I believe libraries need to be able to accept cloud computing wherever they can. With technology advancing on everybody so quickly, libraries, being the centre of information, also need to move quickly to ensure they remain 'up with the times'.