Envisioning the future of science libraries at academic research institutions : a discussion

Abstract

A group of librarians, other information professionals, scientists and research administrators met to discuss the challenges that research libraries are currently facing. After the meeting a survey was conducted to obtain additional input from the group on several key challenges that arose from the discussions. The purpose of the meeting and survey was threefold: 1. Examine in detail, from a variety of perspectives, how the world of research is changing and the impact these changes have on the direction of research libraries. 2. Create an informed vision of how research libraries can be a vital partner to researchers. 3. Suggest a strategic approach for realizing this vision. The strategic approach presented in this white paper incorporates feedback from various sized research libraries, each with its own mission. The expectation is that individual libraries will use it as a guide in formulating strategies that are appropriate to their research communities, financial circumstances, and organizational reporting structure.