Introduction

Merriam-Webster's Dictionary defines cloud computing as “the practice of storing regularly used computer data on multiple servers that can be accessed through the Internet”.

Three service models of cloud computing services

1.       Infrastructure as a Service

2.      Platform as a Service

3.      Software as a Service

Types of cloud deployment models

v  Private Cloud

v  Community Cloud

v  Public Cloud

v  Hybrid Cloud

Cloud computing technologies are used in libraries for

Ø  Develop cloud based digital libraries/repositories

Ø  Share searchable library data

Ø  Host websites

Ø  Search scholarly content

Ø  Store files

Ø  Build networks with other libraries and people

Ø  Support library automation through cloud based acquisition, cataloguing and processing services and hosting the entire data on the cloud which will cut down the costs for hardware and maintenance.

Source: IGNOU Study Materials