Mis-Information at the Heart of the University: Why Administrators Should Take Libraries More Seriously

Abstract

Major university research library systems are complex organizations made up of at least three types of library entities -- the central library, the department/school library, and the professional school library. Are these libraries cost centers or value centers? The voices of all three types of libraries should be heard for their perspectives when determining the future of the university library system with respect to this basic question. Otherwise, the competitive future of the university and its key programs may be put at risk. Knowing the core businesses of the university and how the library can best serve its fundamental purpose is essential.