Non-traditional library collections – in digital and other worlds

Abstract

2014),"Digital collection development for unique users: a veterinary medicine library's approach", Interlending & Document Supply, Vol. 42 Iss 4 pp. 171-175 http://dx.If you would like to write for this, or any other Emerald publication, then please use our Emerald for Authors service information about how to choose which publication to write for and submission guidelines are available for all. Please visit www.emeraldinsight.com/authors for more information. About Emerald www.emeraldinsight.comEmerald is a global publisher linking research and practice to the benefit of society. The company manages a portfolio of more than 290 journals and over 2,350 books and book series volumes, as well as providing an extensive range of online products and additional customer resources and services.Emerald is both COUNTER 4 and TRANSFER compliant. The organization is a partner of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and also works with Portico and the LOCKSS initiative for digital archive preservation. AbstractPurpose -The purpose of this article is to study how public libraries argue for the inclusion of non-traditional library collections and to identify public library objectives related to these collections. Design/methodology/approach -The data was collected through a Web survey which was sent to public library managers in all Swedish municipalities. Data were analyzed using a model in which public library practices are divided into three categories relating to the public library's goals, activities and tools. Findings -Three different main arguments are used to support the introduction of non-traditional collections: as a contribution to public library goals or activities to attract non-users and as the result of external requests or needs. Through analysis of the survey results, the public library's common goal, a socially sustainable society, was identified. Other library goals identified were an environmentally sustainable society and an improved library. Practical implications -The results may inspire practitioners to reflect upon how non-traditional collections are related to library goals and activities and what consequences their inclusion may have for the library. For example, if non-traditional collections are used only to attract new users, there is a risk of creating expectations that the library cannot live up to. Originality/value -Today, focus is placed on the conditions for public libraries in the digital world. It is easy to overlook the importance of non-traditional library collections, and the role they fulfill. This article draws attention to these collections and their possible consequences for public libraries.

Tool lending librarianship

“…Given these reflections on definition, it is more fruitful to talk of traditional and non-traditional materials and collections rather than the libraries as such. In a survey study with public library managers, Michnik and Eriksson (2014) found three main arguments for offering non-traditional collections in libraries.…”

Game On! Recreational Play in the Library

“…• To attract and engage new patrons, or traditionally hard-to-reach populations, with library collections and services (Edwards, 2018;Michnik & Eriksson, 2014).…”

“…• To promote an environment of social inclusivity, equal access, and equity (Michnik & Eriksson, 2014;Söderholm, 2015).…”

“…Some collections may make the library more attractive to community members by "increasing a sense of well-being and comfort in the library" (Michnik & Eriksson, 2014, p. 167). Non-traditional collections also provide library staff with more tools to facilitate library activities, which assists in the achievement of library goals (Michnik & Eriksson, 2014). For instance, a library that loans out media equipment, such as laptops or tablets, may also benefit staff who require the technology for managing and administering library programs.…”

“…The tool library provided opportunities for patrons to develop their skill sets, and in some cases, assist with self-employment by eliminating or reducing financial barriers. Michnik & Eriksson (2014) also touch on the idea of equity and state that non-traditional collections can be used by anyone "regardless of social and economic status" (p. 167). Non-traditional collections provide a social dimension which allows patrons to meet and collaborate with like-minded patrons and library staff (Söderholm, 2015).…”