Library

From Neverend

Four categories of libraries: Database, magical, mental, and paper. All libraries of one category can remain solitary or be "linked" to libraries of the same category. Someone may have a personal library in a town, or a large network of libraries.

Libraries allow information to be created and written by players. Information includes books, stories, notes, and guides.

Written material is saved as "by author" and "by date." The library may set rules for when a work becomes archaic due to an older date, or becomes obsolete due to a new version or newer information available.

Information can be rated by users only, or admins only. Ratings affect search results and recommendations.

Information can be restricted. The requirement to use restricted material can include a passcode, rune, ancient language decrypting, riddle, psychic ability, lockpick ability, hacking, security card, or security level.

Information may remain unique in one location, or be copied to multiple locations. Information can be destroyed by admins. Information can be stolen, though it will be logged as stolen. Information is distributed to the same library category, such as database to database, or paper to paper.

Paper takes much longer to reproduce and distribute information. Databases take very little time. Magic depends on the skill of the user in gathering and interpreting information. Mental requires psychic abilities, meditation, or ritual to locate and unlock information.

Information that is unrestricted includes general guides and stories. Restricted information often applies to a group or guild. Some may even prefer that all guild specific information be kept in a personal, private, hidden library rather than being held in a public library.

Databases are accessed through terminals, and paper libraries are accessed through shelves. Both have a menu of public information available, and menu items can be destroyed or stolen by hacking or by thieves.

Library admins should keep backup copies, and should appoint administrator status to trusted individuals. Admins can also accept and reject submitted material. Admins can also copy and store information, to store somewhere or to sell as a physical item.

Libraries also sell paper, journals, blank books, rare books, writing materials, or allow copies through printing press, scribe, or scanning.