For several years now, the concept of “virtual client” or “virtual customer” has been part of
the world of libraries and information services. Librarians indeed have tamed the computer
for a long time now, and what we find in libraries are now third and even fourth
generation’s systems. Internet is also part of the environment of libraries for many years, at
least in many countries. It seems like what we call the hybrid character of libraries – that is
the obligation to manage at the same time virtual and traditional collections and services –
has fit in little by little with librarians’ mentalities. And for many specialists, this hybrid
library will last still for many many years.