Safe in Whose Hands? Scottish University Library Finances in the 1980s

Abstract

A review of the main financial trends in Scottish university libraries during the 1980s. Updates a previous study in 1986 by the same authors on this topic, covering the post‐Robbins era. Methodology based upon the use of published statistical sources, together with library annual reports. Examines the declining proportion of university finance devoted to libraries. Within the libraries′ budgets investigates the cumulative transfer of resources away from traditional collection building and staffing complements in favour of mushrooming services and automation requirements, in a period of vastly increasing clienteles, usage and demand. Spotlights various co‐operative ventures instigated by the Scottish academic library community to help meet the challenge. Argues that the decline in overall funding and continued transfer of resources from collections to services cannot proceed indefinitely if Scottish universities are to function effectively in an age of information‐hunger and accelerated growth in student numbers.

Citation

Cameron, K.J. and Roberts, M. (1992), "Safe in Whose Hands? Scottish University Library Finances in the 1980s", Library Review, Vol. 41 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242539210020532