A librarian does not necessarily need a thorough knowledge of the technology of digital audio in order to plan and manage digital audio projects and services. In larger institutions, library systems support staff or the institution's information technology department will have sufficient expertise with the technical side of digital audio to make informed decisions. Even with excellent technical support, however, a librarian managing a digital audio service will benefit from a basic understanding of the underlying technology. A librarian equipped with knowledge of key concepts will be prepared to work more effectively with technical staff, who are not always aware the issues that must be considered in providing service to library users. In a smaller institution with limited technical support, the librarian may have little support and be expected to manage every aspect of a digital audio project, from staff supervision right down to selecting sampling rates and streaming speeds. In these cases, technical expertise is essential.
This part provides an overview of the technology of recorded sound and digital audio, including a description of digital audio formats, how digital audio is delivered to the listener, and how digital audio is created.