Do We Need National Libraries, and if So What Sort?: An Assessment in the Light of and Analysis of National Library and Information Needs

Abstract

It should not be assumed that every country needs a national library or that existing national libraries should be developed along certain established lines. Rather, an analysis should first be made of library and information needs that should be met at national level, and of alternative ways of meeting them, both singly and in combination. The variety of alternatives is considerable; only some of them involve national libraries, while others involve other libraries and bodies, including commercial organizations. The choice is affected by various factors, notably the size and stage of development of a country, and should be guided by several principles, but the deciding criterion should be relative cost-effectiveness. No single function absolutely demands a national library, though in many cases it will constitute the best solution.