An overview of some Estonian libraries and their computer systems: A visitor's impressions

Abstract

This paper, based on the experience of running a workshop on library automation in Estonia combined with visits to several major libraries, outlines the main problems faced by Estonian libraries in recent years and the steps taken to improve the situation. It provides insight, through analysis of articles published by (mostly) Estonian professionals into the problems of identifying the problems — lack of funds, lack of qualifications, organisational problems, and searching for possible solutions: networking, resource sharing, use of information technology and international co‐operation. A description of the role of the Open Society's Regional Library Programme in supporting these steps and details about some of the Estonian libraries that were visited prior to the workshop complete the picture of a varied library landscape, richer for its splendid new national library in one of the smallest states on the outskirts of the new Europe.