Capacity and Capability: How can Library and Information Services Make Sure They Succeed?

Abstract

Purpose

The chapter is a personal opinion piece designed to provoke thought and discussion.

Methodology/approach

It reviews the ways in which libraries have responded to technological change over the last 50 years.

Practical implications

The focus is very much on higher education libraries, however the conclusions also have general applicability. The chapter concludes that libraries have to rethink their approach to services and accept a cultural change which embeds them as part of an information flow rather than a filter for the organisation and encourages them to focus much more on integration with corporate mission. There are real implications for the practice of libraries and for a rethinking of their social value and nature.

Originality/value

The chapter synthesises many strands of thought and the practical recommendations for change are of undoubted value to the reader.

Citation

Law, D. (2016), "Capacity and Capability: How can Library and Information Services Make Sure They Succeed?", Innovation in Libraries and Information Services (Advances in Library Administration and Organization, Vol. 35), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 87-101. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0732-067120160000035012