Statistics and the digital change-over

Abstract

Libraries have to face the fact that the book version of certain publications (such as annually published statistical yearbooks) disappears or appears as an equal digital version, parallel to printed copies. Social science libraries may nowadays easily find that the most recent printed copies of some yearbooks on their shelves are 5-10 years old. As a consequence, users might ponder if they would like to be members of such obsolete libraries. As first, the study introduces the past and present of disseminating statistical information in Hungary. It analyses examples from both Hungary and the international scene, and presents digital alternatives of statistical yearbooks. In conclusion, it takes stock of the tasks and opportunities of subject librarians in the digital age, and argues that libraries and librarians continue to be inevitable for research and science.