Wow, what a fun thread, and a nice way to inaugurate a new list!

On Wed, Dec 10, 2003 at 12:05:18PM -0500, Eric Lease Morgan wrote:
> Why is it then that more librarians do not know how to create computer
> software?

Let me turn this question on its head a moment. Why aren't more more computer
programmers aware of the ideas and practices that allow the modern library
to function (cataloging, reference, circulation, facilities management)? Just
as librarians use Microsoft Word or manipulate their OPAC, programmers
probably have used a library in their college days, or visit their local
public library on ocassion.

IMHO this is because society today strongly encourages us to specialize in
a particular area, and it's often difficult to get cross fertilization from
one area into another...but these "in between" areas are often exciting
environments for innovation.

//Ed