A joint university library: vision and reality

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse a Finnish model of cooperation between universities – a joint university library.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a case study. The vision for the joint university library Tritonia, the reality when the libraries of three universities merged in 2001 and the new merging in 2010, when two more universities joined the library cooperation, is discussed. Key factors of quality management in a joint bilingual library are analysed.

Findings

The synergetic effects of such a library are numerous when it comes to: the access to printed collections; the role of the library as a social place and meeting spot for students, staff and the public; the available services; and the networking between languages and universities. No synergetic effects have so far been achieved when it comes to e‐resources.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based on experiences of one joint library.

Practical implications

The paper presents an existing model for cooperation in a joint multilingual library.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on a new model of library cooperation between universities.

Citation

Flemming, C. (2012), "A joint university library: vision and reality", Library Management, Vol. 33 No. 1/2, pp. 95-103. https://doi.org/10.1108/01435121211203356