Cloud computing in National Library and Archives of Iran: easiness, security and flexibility in distribution of knowledge for libraries, citizens and the society

The subject of cloud computing has been a hot topic for the past years. There are many implications regarding this service provisioning for libraries. The points of view of personnel and managers of each organization are vital for taking necessary steps for applying the new technologies. This paper examines the attitudes of the authorities of the National Library and Archives Organization of Iran towards using cloud computing facilities, its benefits and concerns. It investigates the effectiveness of cloud computing in terms of reducing cost of ICT and increasing the general productivity indices (time, energy and manpower) and related concerns including threats to information security and career of IT experts in the organization. Data gathering was done through questionnaire and in depth interviews. The research results showed that from the perspective of over half of the study population, the use of cloud computing will have a high impact on lowering costs and increasing the general productivity indices. The majority of respondents considered that the use of cloud computing has a relative threat for data security and career of IT experts in the organization