Reconsidering Library Collections: Community Services as Documents

Abstract

In recognition of on-going change in how information becomes available, this study focuses on urban public librarian practices for meeting information needs, especially those of users who prefer to talk when obtaining information. Interview and focus group data reveal how libraries meet those needs including through library collaborations with community service agencies. Analysis of that data makes it possible to note that librarians manage relations with these agencies similar to how they manage traditional library collections. A subsequent discussion considers how this observation impacts LIS education and current understanding of documents before concluding with recommendations for professional practice and for future research.

Keywords

• documents
• library services
• urban public libraries
• practices