Community connections, community collections

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to explore library-community collaboration from both a theoretical and practical perspective, highlighting successful collaborative strategies and projects and illustrating important considerations for libraries that are considering community partnerships. Design/methodology/approach This paper consists of a literature review and several "capsule" case studies of projects completed at one academic library to illustrate principles that can result in successful collaborative projects. Findings Library-community collaboration presents significant benefits if the needs and priorities of all collaborating partners are taken into account. Successful projects will use the strengths of one partner to balance the weaknesses of another, will be based on shared goals, will offer credit to all partners and will result in stronger relationships for all involved. Originality/value Although library-community partnerships are not uncommon, many of these partnerships are housed in public libraries or involve only large, institutional players. This paper explores several non-traditional academic library initiatives involving youth service learning and outreach to smaller community groups that might otherwise be ignored by large university libraries.

Creating Connections, Building Community: The Role of Oral History Collections in Documenting and Sharing Campus Diversity

“…Many archivists now consider it a priority to build and provide access to accurate and balanced research collections that document history from multiple perspectives-not solely from the elite or from government documents (Keough, 2002). Meanwhile, collaborative projects that bring together libraries and archives with their communities are seen as increasingly important in building connections and providing opportunities to share historical materials and perspectives (Gwynn, 2016).…”