Cornell University Library Distance Learning White Paper.

This report identifies potential issues that the Cornell University Library (CUL) might face in supporting distance learning, and recommends solutions. While the precise budgetary implications are uncertain, additional resources, services, and personnel will need to be accounted for in the cost of serving distance learners. The report addresses: network access and authentication; acquisition and collection development; document services; reference and instruction services; faculty support; and the Library's relationship to other departments. Recommendations include: (1) CUL should play an active role in the development of distance learning policies; (2) CUL should develop a cost-recovery model to account for the additional resources, services, and personnel to support distance learners; (3) CUL should appoint a distance learning team composed of members from various key departments; (4) develop library-wide policies for support for distance learners; (5) develop a stronger relationship with CIT so that library computing needs are adequately supported; (6) actively promote indexing services; (7) explore proxy servers, permit servers, and related authentication technologies; (8) investigate 1-800 numbers for library services; and (9) increase development of Web-based training materials. (SWC)