Electronic Journals in Arab Libraries: The Future and Challenges

Abstract

This article examines the status of electronic journals in Arab libraries, focusing on the shift from print periodicals to electronic resources and the opportunities and challenges this shift creates for libraries and information centers. It explains the concept and types of electronic journals, including journals available only in electronic form and those issued alongside printed versions, as well as their delivery through CD-ROMs, online systems, and websites. The article discusses the benefits of electronic journals for libraries, such as saving space, reducing binding and storage costs, expanding access, and enabling simultaneous use by multiple users. It also highlights benefits for researchers, including faster access, multiple access points, and improved searching and retrieval. At the same time, the article addresses challenges such as high costs, instability of some sources, licensing issues, and the need for technical infrastructure and qualified staff. It further presents criteria for selecting electronic journals and discusses EBSCO information services as a model for full-text access and linking between information resources. The article concludes that the future of electronic journals in Arab libraries depends on developing infrastructure, training staff, strengthening cooperation among libraries, and establishing clear policies for acquisition and access.