Electronic, digital and virtual libraries: review of concepts and distinctive differences

Abstract

There seems to be confusion among librarians regarding these three terminologies associated with library and information science discipline: Electronic Library, Digital Library and Virtual Library. In this paper, the authors have succinctly distinguished the trio by presenting their definitions as viewed by different authors and by discussing the characteristics of each of them. Examples of electronic, digital and virtual libraries (including indigenous and overseas) are given. Also advantages of each of the libraries are listed under each theme. Also the disadvantages of digital library and virtual library are listed. The authors conclude by pointing out the distinguishing differences between the identifiable types of Internet-based libraries.