Demonstrating and delivering value : the academic library in the 21st century

Abstract

This presentation will explore the traditional objectives ascribed to the academic library and the extent to which they are still relevant and appropriate in the face of the tremendous technological, economic and demographic changes impacting on the academic environment today. An attempt will be made to describe some of the enduring values of academic library services and how they may be developed and enhanced in spite of these significant challenges. The wide range of users’ needs and wants will be considered, how they have changed and how libraries may best provide services that can make meaningful differences in their academic and professional lives.