The British Library: its origins, development and future

Abstract

Purpose

To summarise the development of the British Library and the role played by Maurice Line.

Design/methodology/approach

The history of the British Library is described. The responses it is making to current changes in the audiences it serves and the environment in which it exists are analysed.

Findings

The nature of the scholarly communication process is changing but document supply will continue to play an important role.

Practical implications

Continuous innovation is vital today in order to meet the changing needs of users.

Originality/value

Key developments in one of the world's outstanding national libraries are summarised by its chief executive.

Citation

Brindley, L. (2005), "The British Library: its origins, development and future", Interlending & Document Supply, Vol. 33 No. 2, pp. 76-80. https://doi.org/10.1108/02641610510602600