Off-Site Storage and Special Collections: A Study in Use and Impact in ARL Libraries in the United States

Abstract

Special collections libraries collect and preserve materials of intellectual and cultural heritage, providing access to unique research resources. As their holdings continue to expand, special collections in research libraries confront increased space pressures. Off-site storage facilities, used frequently by research libraries for general circulating collections, offer a solution to these pressures. Using data from a survey of special collections directors from ARL member libraries, this article examines both the current use of off-site storage facilities and its impact on core special collections activities. This study provides a foundation for what has been an underexplored area and identifies areas for further research.