Regional library systems: a tale of cooperation that grew America's public libraries

Abstract

Purpose -Background on library service needs that lead to the creation of regional library systems, and overview of current trends. Design/methodology/approach -Historical and philosophical overview by participating regional library system director. Findings -In Illinois, the creation of regional library systems supported the establishment of many new public libraries and service was expanded and strengthened in existing libraries. With the need for new libraries less critical, the systems have greater focus on resource sharing and library development. Originality/value -As resources for libraries continue to be strained, cooperative ventures can make scarce dollars go further.

New York State Public Library Systems and Their Services

“…This study called for larger units of public library services as well as the systematic coordination of existing library resources and functions (Joeckel and Winslow 1948). Neither then nor now is there a standard way of establishing and funding public library systems in the United States (Long 2005). The public library system was intended to make efficient use of resources that could be shared by multiple libraries.…”

“…Typical services provided by public library systems to individual libraries include library development such as training, continuing education, and consulting specialties; economies-of-scale projects such as joint purchasing and centralized processing; resource sharing projects such as shared automation systems and interlibrary loan; and catalyst projects in which the public library system acts as a change agent or pilot site for developing new service ideas for its members (Long 2005). These services cover the areas of individual public libraries' operations, services, and administrations (Childers 1988).…”

Service decision-making processes at three New York state cooperative public library systems

“…Around this time, cooperative library systems' developments took place in about half of the 50 states. However, the practice was different in each state depending on the perceived needs (Long, 2005). In the late 1950s, the New York State Legislature and Governor authorized the establishment of public library systems in the Education Law.…”

How public library systems in New York State make service decisions: Case studies at three cooperative public library systems

“…Public library systems in the United States started during the 1940s and 1950s (Joeckel & Winslow, 1948; Long, 2005). They were designed to take advantage of economies of scale by facilitating resource sharing among individual member public libraries, strengthening and equalizing services provided by member libraries to their communities.…”