New e-sources, new models: reinventing library approaches to providing access

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose that librarians consider new ways of working in order to manage new types of electronic sources.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is based on a literature survey, readings outside the literature, and observations in the field.FindingsLibrarians need to think out of the box, change how they structure their organizations and work, and cede more control to users.Research limitations/implicationsThis is an opinion piece urging librarians to think differently.Practical implicationsIf librarians could think out of the box, give up their traditional organizational lines, and cede more control to users, managing new forms of electronic resources would be easier.Social implicationsChanging ways of thinking is a long, difficult process.Originality/valueThis paper was originally presented at the IFLA conference in Milan in August 2009.