Science Library Trends at ARL Institutions

Abstract

<jats:p>This study uses qualitative and quantitative data to identify science library trends at Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member institutions. Our recent count found 69% of all ARL academic institutions have at least one science library. Comparing our data to a 2010 study of American ARL institutions, the number of science libraries at American ARL institutions is down 17%. Our analysis shows this decrease is due in large part to a continuing trend of departmental libraries (e.g., mathematics, chemistry, and physics) merging into multidisciplinary science libraries. We also surveyed ARL science libraries and found that their primary focus is on providing comfortable, inviting study space and promoting student and/or faculty collaboration. Both datasets from this study can be used to support the ongoing management of science libraries, including collections, facilities, and services.</jats:p>

Semiotic Analysis of a Science Library: Inclusion and Messaging

“…A study of Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member institutions demonstrates a thirtyyear trend of closing and consolidating branch libraries that support the sciences. As library services have been redirected and spaces renovated to meet changing user needs, an emphasis on providing "a comfortable, inviting study space" has emerged as a priority for successful spaces (Doty & Majors, 2019). This includes assessing library patron perceptions of the inclusivity of library spaces and services (Elteto, Jackson, & Lim, 2008;Morgan-Daniel et al, 2021).…”

The J.M. Péridier Library: Its Past, Present, and Future

“…The closing of libraries or library branches on academic campuses is an all-toocommon experience. According to a 2019 article, "the total number of science libraries [at Association of Research Libraries institutions] has decreased by one-third since 1983" [1]. Many librarians, especially at universities, are familiar with the process and rationales, but because there isn't much literature on astronomy library closures in particular and because astronomy libraries can contain a wide variety of unusual or atypical materials, this article presents the project we had here at the University of Texas (UT) Libraries and how we approached it.…”

Board 93: Collection Management in Preparation for Building Restoration: University of Illinois Mathematics Library

“…From 1983 to 2017, 79% of physics departmental libraries and fifty-eight percent 58% of geology departmental libraries closed at ARL institutions. Mathematics departmental libraries saw the lowest closure rate at fifty percent 50% [12]. This can be attributed to preference for print collections within the mathematics and statistics fields, though there is evidence that information seeking habits shifted to a digital-first strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic largely due to the restrictions for accessing physical library spaces during the lockdown period [13].…”