Creating a library holding group: an approach to large system integration

Isaac R. Huffman, MSLS, AHIP, Heather J. Martin, MISt, AHIP, Basia Delawska-Elliott, MLIS

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose: Faced with resource constraints, many hospital libraries have considered joint operations. This case study describes how Providence Health & Services created a single group to provide library services.Methods: Using a holding group model, staff worked to unify more than 6,100 nonlibrary subscriptions and 14 internal library sites.Results: Our library services grew by unifying 2,138 nonlibrary subscriptions and 11 library sites and hiring more library staff. We expanded access to 26,018 more patrons.Conclusions: A model with built-in flexibility allowed successful library expansion. Although challenges remain, this success points to a viable model of unified operations.
Original languageEnglish (US)
JournalJournal of the Medical Library Association
Volume104
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 5 2017
Externally publishedYes

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