La biblioteca universitaria como elemento clave en la estrategia de investigación de la universidad = Academic libraries as a key element in the research strategy of the university

A review of the current context at university libraries is made. It is focused on changes in the university competitive environment, which gives an increasing importance on the research function and on the need of prove library value and accountability. It is analyzed the role of the library support services for research as key element to show their capability to work for university's goals and to occupy a relevant position in institutional research policies. It is concluded presenting main challenges, opportunities and tools of university libraries towards this purpose.