Resource sharing in library : A brief information

By LISEDUNETWORK May 20, 20236 Comments16 Mins Read

SHA R E
Introduction: Resource sharing in libraries is an essential practice that fosters collaboration and maximizes the
utilization of information and materials among libraries to meet the diverse needs of their patrons. It is a strategic
approach that allows libraries to overcome the limitations of their individual collections and expand access to a
wide range of resources. Through resource sharing, libraries can exchange books, journals, audiovisual materials,
and digital content, enabling users to benefit from vast knowledge and entertainment regardless of their geographic
location. This cooperative endeavor not only promotes cost efficiency but also enhances the value and effectiveness
of library services, empowering users with greater opportunities for research, learning, and cultural enrichment. By
harnessing the power of shared resources, libraries strengthen their roles as vital community hubs and information
gatekeepers, ensuring that information remains accessible to all, irrespective of the constraints posed by individual
library collections.
Meaning of Resource Sharing
In the age of the information explosion, no library, however big or rich, can satisfy all the needs of its users due to
the tremendous number of documents and information published every moment. The demands and needs of library
users also change from time to time, so the library gets trouble meeting its user’s needs. To solve the problems of
information explosion, the concept of resource sharing has been developed.
Resource sharing in libraries refers to the practice of collaborating and exchanging materials and information
among libraries to enhance access and availability for library users. It involves sharing physical items such as
books, periodicals, audiovisual materials, and electronic resources like e-books and databases. Resource sharing
enables libraries to extend the reach of their collections beyond their own holdings, allowing patrons to access a
broader range of materials that may not be available locally. This can be achieved through various methods,
including interlibrary loan, cooperative purchasing, consortial borrowing, and digital delivery systems. Resource
sharing is crucial in ensuring equitable access to information, particularly for users in smaller or under-resourced
libraries with limited resources or specialized needs. By facilitating the sharing of resources, libraries can
collectively optimize their collections, reduce duplication of materials, and provide a richer and more
comprehensive library experience for their patrons.
Definitions of Resource Sharing
According to Chatterjee1 “It will not merely mean mutual sharing of information sources available in different
libraries, it will mean utilizing the information sources of one library for generating services by another library”.

Sujatha, G. (1999)2, “Resource sharing is nothing but sharing of library resources by certain participating libraries
among themselves on the basis of the principle of cooperation. This applies to the use of documents, manpower,
facilities, services, building space, or equipment”.

The Aims of resource sharing

Resource-sharing aims in libraries are multifaceted and encompass several vital objectives. Here are some of the
primary aims:

1. Increase access to information and resources for library users: Resource sharing aims to ensure that
library users have access to a wide range of materials and information, regardless of the size or holdings of
their local library. By sharing resources among libraries, users can benefit from a larger pool of resources
and have a better chance of finding the information they need.
2. Reduce the duplication of resources among libraries: Resource sharing helps prevent unnecessary
duplication of materials across libraries. Instead of each library acquiring the same resources independently,
 they can share and borrow from each other, thus optimizing the use of available resources and reducing
costs.
3. Improve the efficiency of library operations: By sharing resources, libraries can streamline their
operations and use their resources more efficiently. Rather than maintaining extensive collections in every
library, resource sharing allows libraries to focus on their areas of expertise and rely on other libraries for
materials that are not frequently used.
4. Save money for libraries: Resource sharing can lead to significant cost savings for libraries. Instead of
purchasing every item users request, libraries can borrow or access resources from partner libraries. This
reduces the need for expensive acquisitions and allows libraries to allocate their budgets more effectively.
5. Promote cooperation and collaboration among libraries: Resource sharing fosters a spirit of cooperation
and collaboration among libraries. Libraries can form partnerships, consortia, or networks to facilitate
sharing of resources, knowledge, and expertise. This collaboration promotes the exchange of ideas, best
practices, and joint initiatives, leading to improved services and better outcomes for library users.
6. Access to a wider range of resources: Resource sharing aims to expand access to a diverse and extensive
pool of resources beyond the individual holdings of a single library. By sharing resources, libraries can
provide their patrons with a broader selection of books, journals, multimedia materials, and digital content,
increasing the chances of meeting the diverse information needs of users.
7. Cost-effectiveness: Resource sharing allows libraries to optimize their budgets by reducing the need for
duplicate purchases. By sharing resources, libraries can pool their resources, collectively acquiring
materials and services that would be too costly for a single library to acquire independently. This approach
promotes cost efficiency and enables libraries to provide more resources within their financial constraints.
8. Enhanced library services: Resource sharing enhances the quality and effectiveness of library services. By
tapping into shared resources, libraries can offer their users a more comprehensive range of materials and
information. This enriches research opportunities, supports academic endeavors, and promotes lifelong
learning by catering to library patrons’ diverse needs and interests.
9. Collaboration and networking: Resource sharing fosters collaboration and networking among libraries. It
encourages libraries to collaborate, share expertise, and develop mutually beneficial relationships. Through
partnerships and consortia, libraries can establish cooperative resource-sharing arrangements, leading to
improved service delivery, joint initiatives, and shared best practices.
10. Equal access and inclusivity: Resource sharing ensures equitable access to information for all users,
regardless of their geographic location, socio-economic background, or institutional affiliation. By
facilitating access to resources beyond the local library, resource sharing addresses disparities in
information access and promotes inclusivity, benefiting users who may not have access to certain resources
in their immediate vicinity.
Methods of Resource Sharing in Library
Resource sharing in libraries involves various methods to expand access to materials and information. Interlibrary
loan allows libraries to borrow items from other libraries on behalf of their patrons. Library consortia bring
libraries together to share resources, services, and expertise. Shared collections create collective pools of materials
that multiple libraries can access. Cooperative cataloging ensures consistent and efficient bibliographic records
across libraries. Document delivery services enable libraries to obtain and provide access to specific documents or
articles. Access to electronic resources can be shared through cooperative agreements or consortium subscriptions.
These methods of resource sharing enhance library services, optimize resource utilization, and promote
collaboration among libraries, ultimately benefiting library users and expanding their access to a wider range of
resources.

There are many methods of resource sharing in libraries. Some of the most common methods include:

1. Interlibrary Loan (ILL): Interlibrary loan enables libraries to borrow materials from other libraries on
behalf of their patrons. If a library does not have a particular item, they can request it from another library
that does. The requested item is then loaned to the patron through their local library. Interlibrary loans can
 include physical materials like books, DVDs, or CDs, as well as electronic resources such as articles or e-
books.
2. Library Consortia: Library consortia are collaborative groups or networks of libraries that work together
to share resources, services, and expertise. Consortia can be at the regional, national, or international level.
By pooling resources and coordinating efforts, libraries in a consortium can collectively offer a broader
range of resources to their patrons, negotiate better deals with vendors, and collaborate on various projects
and initiatives.
3. Shared Collections: Shared collections involve libraries joining forces to create a collective collection of
materials that all participating libraries can access. This approach allows libraries to diversify their
collections and offer a wider range of resources to their users. Shared collections can be physical, where
libraries contribute and lend items to one another, or digital, where libraries pool electronic resources for
joint access.
4. Cooperative Purchasing: Cooperative purchasing involves libraries acquiring materials to build shared
collections jointly. By pooling their resources, libraries can negotiate better prices, discounts, or licensing
terms for purchasing books, databases, e-books, or other resources. Cooperative purchasing can be
organized at the local, regional, or national level, allowing libraries to expand their collections and access
resources they might not be able to afford individually.
5. Cooperative Cataloging: Cooperative cataloging involves libraries working together to create and
maintain bibliographic records for materials. This collaboration ensures that resources are cataloged
consistently and efficiently across libraries, reducing duplication of effort and improving access to
information. Cooperative cataloging initiatives often employ shared standards, such as MARC (Machine-
Readable Cataloging), to facilitate interoperability.
6. Digital Resource Sharing: With the growth of digital resources, libraries can share electronic materials
more easily. Digital resource sharing involves the sharing of e-books, e-journals, databases, and other
digital content among libraries. Libraries can participate in digital resource-sharing programs or consortia
that provide access to a wide range of digital materials, ensuring that users can access diverse online
resources.
7. Document Delivery: Document delivery services allow libraries to obtain and provide access to specific
documents or articles that are not available in their collections. Libraries can request these materials from
other libraries or document suppliers, who provide the requested documents physically or electronically.
Document delivery services are beneficial for obtaining research articles, book chapters, or conference
papers.
8. Resource Sharing Networks: Resource-sharing networks bring together libraries, organizations, or
consortia to facilitate the exchange of resources. These networks create platforms or systems that enable
 libraries to share materials, information, and expertise. Libraries can join these networks to access shared
catalogs, request materials, and collaborate with other members on resource-sharing initiatives.

These methods of resource sharing empower libraries to optimize their collections, increase access to materials,
enhance services, and leverage their collective strengths to benefit their users. Resource sharing in libraries plays a
crucial role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of library operations while expanding the availability of
resources for patrons.

Benefits of Resource Sharing in Library

Resource sharing in libraries offers several key benefits. Firstly, it expands access to a wider range of resources for
library users. Through interlibrary loans, shared collections, and access to electronic resources, patrons can access
materials that may not be available in their local library, enriching their research and learning experiences.
Secondly, resource sharing promotes cost efficiency by reducing duplication of materials and allowing libraries to
share the costs of acquisitions. This enables libraries to optimize their budgets and allocate resources to other
essential services. Additionally, resource sharing fosters collaboration and networking among libraries, facilitating
the exchange of expertise, best practices, and joint initiatives. It promotes equal access to information, ensuring that
users, regardless of location or library size, have access to a diverse array of resources. Overall, resource sharing
strengthens library services, enhances user experiences, and supports the goal of providing equitable access to
information for all.

There are many benefits to resource sharing, including:

1. Increased access to information: Resource sharing allows library users to access a broader range of
information sources, including books, journals, articles, and digital resources. This expanded access enables
users to explore diverse perspectives, conduct comprehensive research, and enhance their knowledge base.
2. Increased access to resources: Through resource sharing, libraries can tap into the collective holdings of
multiple libraries, making a broader range of resources available to their users. This ensures patrons have
access to materials that may not be available in their local library, enriching their learning and research
experiences.
3. Improved research: By accessing a broader pool of resources, users can conduct more in-depth and
comprehensive research. They can explore various perspectives, access specialized materials, and make
informed decisions based on a wider range of information sources.
4. Enhanced learning: Resource sharing facilitates access to educational materials and resources,
empowering users to engage in self-directed learning. It broadens the educational opportunities available to
 library users, allowing them to explore new topics, deepen their understanding, and pursue personal and
professional growth.
5. Increased opportunities for collaboration: Resource sharing encourages collaboration among libraries,
promoting knowledge exchange, expertise sharing, and joint initiatives. Libraries can collaborate on
research projects, organize events and workshops, and engage in cooperative collection development,
leading to enriched collaborations and improved services for library users.
6. Reduced costs of the library: Resource sharing helps libraries reduce costs by minimizing the duplication
of resources. Instead of acquiring every item individually, libraries can share resources, borrow from
partner libraries, or participate in consortium purchases, resulting in significant cost savings.
7. Improved efficiency: Resource sharing optimizes library operations by streamlining resource acquisition
and management processes. It eliminates the need for redundant efforts in acquiring materials that are
already available in partner libraries, allowing libraries to allocate their resources more efficiently and focus
on providing high-quality services to their users.

Resource sharing in libraries offers a wide array of benefits, including increased access to information and
resources, improved research and learning outcomes, enhanced collaboration opportunities, cost savings, and
improved operational efficiency. It plays a crucial role in enriching the library experience for users and maximizing
the utilization of available resources.
Challenges of Resource Sharing
While resource sharing in libraries brings numerous benefits, it also comes with particular challenges that need to
be addressed. Some of the common challenges of resource sharing in libraries include:

1. Legal and Copyright Issues: Sharing copyrighted materials can be complex due to legal restrictions and
licensing agreements. Libraries must ensure compliance with copyright laws and navigate licensing terms to
determine what can be shared and under what conditions. Addressing copyright concerns while facilitating
resource sharing requires careful attention and adherence to copyright guidelines.
2. Uneven Availability of Resources: Libraries may face challenges in accessing resources due to variations
in collection strengths and holdings among different libraries. Not all libraries may have the same level of
resources or materials available for sharing, which can limit the effectiveness of resource-sharing initiatives
and create inequalities in access.
3. Interoperability and Technical Challenges: Resource sharing often involves interoperability among
library systems, catalogs, and technologies. Libraries must overcome technical hurdles to facilitate seamless
resource sharing, including compatibility issues between different library management systems, varying
metadata standards, and differing technological infrastructures.
 4. Resource Management and Tracking: Effectively managing shared resources can be a logistical
challenge. Libraries must track borrowed materials, coordinate due dates, handle renewals, and ensure
timely returns. Maintaining accurate records and communication channels between libraries is crucial to
avoid confusion and minimize administrative burdens.
5. Resource Condition and Preservation: Sharing physical resources can lead to wear and tear, potentially
affecting the condition and longevity of borrowed materials. Libraries must establish protocols for handling,
packaging, and transporting items to ensure their preservation and minimize damage during transit.
6. Funding and Budgetary Constraints: Resource-sharing initiatives require financial resources to cover
costs such as shipping, digitization, or licensing fees. Libraries may face challenges in securing adequate
funding to support resource-sharing activities, especially when balancing competing priorities within
limited budgets.
7. Institutional Policies and Cooperation: Libraries may encounter challenges in establishing and
maintaining resource-sharing partnerships. Collaborative efforts require consensus on policies, protocols,
and cooperation among participating libraries. Building and sustaining effective relationships, aligning
institutional goals, and managing differing priorities can pose challenges.

Addressing these challenges requires proactive planning, effective communication, collaboration, and
technological solutions. Libraries can work towards finding sustainable models, advocating for favorable copyright
frameworks, investing in interoperable systems, and fostering strong partnerships to overcome these obstacles and
maximize the benefits of resource sharing for their users and institutions.

Requirements for Resource Sharing

Several requirements need to be addressed to facilitate effective resource sharing in libraries. These requirements
include:

1. Clear Policies and Agreements: Libraries must establish resource-sharing policies that outline the scope,
terms, and conditions of sharing resources. These policies should cover aspects such as eligibility criteria
for borrowing, loan periods, renewal options, and any associated fees or penalties. Clear agreements
between participating libraries help ensure consistency and smooth operation of resource-sharing initiatives.
2. Interlibrary Cooperation: Resource sharing requires cooperation and collaboration among libraries.
Libraries need to actively engage with one another, establish communication channels, and foster a culture
of collaboration. Open lines of communication and a willingness to share resources and expertise are
essential for successful resource sharing.
3. Reliable Library Management Systems: Efficient resource sharing relies on robust library management
systems that support the tracking and managing of shared resources. Libraries should have reliable systems
 in place for cataloging, interlibrary loan management, circulation, and tracking due dates and returns. These
systems should ideally be interoperable to enable seamless sharing of resources between libraries.
4. Metadata Standards and Interoperability: Libraries need to adhere to common metadata standards and
protocols to ensure consistency and interoperability between library systems. Shared resources should be
described using standardized metadata formats, such as MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) or Dublin
Core, to facilitate easy discovery and access across different library systems.
5. Technological Infrastructure: Libraries should have the necessary technological infrastructure to support
resource-sharing initiatives. This includes having stable and secure networks, adequate bandwidth for
electronic resource sharing, and the ability to handle the electronic delivery of documents. Libraries must
also ensure their systems and platforms comply with security and privacy standards to protect user data.
6. Trained Staff: Library staff involved in resource sharing should receive appropriate training to manage and
support these initiatives effectively. They should know interlibrary loan procedures, cataloging standards,
copyright regulations, and best resource-sharing practices. Training equips staff with the skills and
knowledge necessary to handle the complexities and challenges associated with resource sharing.
7. Copyright Compliance: Libraries must comply with copyright regulations when sharing resources.
Understanding and adhering to copyright laws, licensing agreements, and fair use provisions is essential to
ensure legal sharing of copyrighted materials. Libraries should establish procedures for evaluating
copyright permissions and obtaining necessary authorizations for sharing digital and physical resources.