Design and Usability of Digital Libraries: Case Studies in the Asia Pacific

Author(s):  
María Cruz Berrocal ◽  
Cheng-Hwa Tsang

We briefly review the topics that our case studies in Vanuatu, Marianas, the Philippines, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, and Japan highlight, and note the value of these studies in framing a comparative approach to colonialism in the Asia-Pacific region. Each case study highlights different aspects in the colonial relationship. The chapters have been grouped following a geographical criterion, and the imbalance reflects the fact that some areas have been better studied than others (e.g. for Marianas), albeit with different perspectives. We express our hope that the book has gathered some previously little systematic or accessible evidence, offered comprehensive histories of some of the areas, and raised questions for the future.


Author(s):  
John Breen ◽  
Suzanne Bergin-Seers ◽  
Stephen Burgess ◽  
Gordon Campbell ◽  
Muhammad Mahmood ◽  
...  

This chapter examines the role that the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) has played in setting government policy to encourage increased trade by SMEs. A study of six “successful” micro and small businesses in APEC economies that was commissioned by APEC examines their attitudes towards trade and e-commerce. The case studies show that e-commerce can be a facilitator to trade for businesses with a propensity towards entrepreneurship and good management practices. To other businesses it may be seen as an inhibitor due to the lack of knowledge associated with its use and its benefits. The chapter shows how APEC used this study and some of its other initiatives to develop its IT and e-commerce policy for SMEs as part of its overall policy for SME development in the region.


Author(s):  
Soh Whee Kheng Grace

Library digitization on a global basis is essential in the twenty-first century. The digital library development initiatives in most countries depend substantially on their national libraries. This chapter focuses on an overview of how national libraries of 14 countries in the Asia-Pacific region are involved in digital library initiatives. Most libraries participate in the collaborative efforts to build digital libraries with support from their government. Some focus on digitization and preservation activities, while others concentrate on digitization standards. Requirements for digital library implementation from a global perspective are essential. With the understanding of the current situation in Asia Pacific, we can understand the readiness of national libraries aiming for globalization in this part of the world, and action can be taken to achieve the aim. The globalization of digital libraries is what the world should be heading towards as we enter the next century.


Author(s):  
David Baker

Abstract Traditionally, public order clashes between police and protesters in Australia were intermittent and erratic, but police responses were often repressive and violent. By the 1990s, most police leadership was advocating a low-key strategy: one of communication and dialogue, negotiated management, and a less coercive approach to large-scale protests. This article argues that policing of demonstrations responds to the dynamics of differing protest contexts and behaviours. It explores the policing of some significant contemporary demonstrations in Australia ranging from industrial disputes to anti-globalization protests (1998 national waterfront dispute, 2007 Sydney Asia-Pacific Economic Corporation summit, and the 2014 G20 mega event in Brisbane). Although the policing approaches were markedly diverse, these case studies involved limited confrontation. Despite some notable exceptions, modern-day policing of protest in Australia has usually been non-confrontational, partly the result of police–protester liaison and dialogue. The psychological threat of police force, rather than its actual implementation, has restricted potential protest participation and limited violent clashes. A delicate and fragile balance exists between the police maintenance of order and security and the facilitation of a peaceful protest.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 11-46 ◽  
Author(s):  
Beatriz Garcia ◽  
Mandy Meng Fang ◽  
Jolene Lin

Abstract Marine plastics pollution (MPP) is an alarming problem affecting many countries, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, and generated mostly from land-based sources. Five Asian countries (i.e. China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Sri Lanka) have been identified as the largest sources of MPP globally. This article presents two cases studies focused on the two largest polluters: China and Indonesia. Both countries face similar challenges in dealing with plastic pollution. They have weak legal and institutional frameworks in place to deal with MPP. The two case studies also show that there have been more creative and effective measures taken at the domestic level by local governments and non-state actors, many of which involve partnerships among different stakeholders. This article argues that governance efforts to address MPP require an ‘all hands-on deck’ approach, involving multi-level and multi-actor strategies and targeted regulatory and non-regulatory measures. However, our findings also suggest that most efforts should be directed at the subnational level, from which the problem mainly originates. This article proposes a number of legal and policy recommendations, based on the lessons learned from the case studies, which can be instrumental in reducing the global MPP crisis.


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