Quo Vadis ? Fundamental Reflections on the Future of Academic Libraries

Factors affecting the role and development of academic and research libraries during the more immediate future are discussed. Consideration is given to the advancement and improvement of library service in the context of access to information and materials, and the reliance on resource sharing through cooperation of an informal nature and through networks. Implications are outlined: specifically, the resulting importance of document delivery, the effects on collection growth and management and on the relationship of the academic library with its parent body and with other libraries. Recommendations are made for increased access to library holdings through distributed networks, the improvement of interlibrary loan, the implementation of cooperative collection management, a reappraisal of collection evaluation criteria, and the appropriate ritualization of management skills and technology.