The need for versatility in a small research library environment

Abstract

The need for change in the management and administration of libraries is now well recognized. Current thought seems to be largely devoted to systems analysis and streamlining of traditional library functions. Foskett, however, puts forward a view that libraries ‘are not closed and static systems, but must continually develop in relation to their environment, must be prepared to change the organization of their various parts in order to survive and fulfil the purpose for which they were created’. We endorse this view whilst stressing the need for the research library to be willing to expand its function to that of a system of communication as well as information. In fields of pure research which depend upon the rapid exchange of current knowledge it is necessary for an equal emphasis to be placed on both inward and outward communication. Providing the most useful service to scientific users within the confines of a stated number of staff and a restricted amount of money leads to a necessity for versatility in the staffing of such services.

Citation

Lowndes, S. and Sharp, I. (1975), "The need for versatility in a small research library environment", Aslib Proceedings, Vol. 27 No. 3, pp. 90-97. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb050496