A broken relationship: pushing direct marketing to the public library user: Editorial

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the potential implications of a recent initiative in public libraries in England that sees commercial direct marketing placed in library books borrowed by users.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is a reflective viewpoint around the nature of the librarian‐user relationship and discusses some of the literature in this field.

Findings

The paper finds that the initiative potentially endangers a relationship built on impartiality and user needs.

Practical implication

The paper analyses a new area of public library policy.

Originality/value

Takes a critical approach to a new initiative in public libraries in England.

Citation

McMenemy, D. (2008), "A broken relationship: pushing direct marketing to the public library user: Editorial", Library Review, Vol. 57 No. 6, pp. 413-415. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242530810886670