To read this content please select one of the options below:

Developments in academic library consortia from the 1960s through to 2000: a review of the literature

Reason Baathuli Nfila (Reason Baathuli Nfila is Librarian, e‐mail: Nfilar@mopipi.ub.bw, at the University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.)
Kwasi Darko‐Ampem (Kwasi Darko‐Ampem is Senior Librarian, at the University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.)

Library Management

ISSN: 0143-5124

Article publication date: 1 June 2002

3074

Abstract

Traces the term “library consortium” as a form of co‐operation among libraries. Focuses on reasons for forming consortia and types, ranging from highly decentralised to highly centralised. Literature on consortia is mostly reported in four sources. Highlights the formation of the International Association of Library Consortia in 1997. The current trend is one of sharing integrated library systems and computer databases, collection development, purchasing of electronic journals, and staff development. What has been achieved is the provision of resources to patrons that did not have them before the consortia, as well as increased levels of services and convenience of patrons. By libraries banding together, cost savings come through reduced cost per unit as the group of libraries in the consortium shares the expenditure.

Keywords

Citation

Baathuli Nfila, R. and Darko‐Ampem, K. (2002), "Developments in academic library consortia from the 1960s through to 2000: a review of the literature", Library Management, Vol. 23 No. 4/5, pp. 203-212. https://doi.org/10.1108/01435120210429934

Publisher

:

MCB UP Ltd

Copyright © 2002, MCB UP Limited

Related articles