Embedding Research and Learning in Libraries.

The theme of this conference is “Embedding Libraries in Research and Learning.” While this is critical within the context of the new technologies and new service expectations of scholars and students it is also important that research and learning remain embedded in libraries if they are to be an integral part of the scholarly fabric of our institutions. With continuing economic pressures on scholarly institutions and the desire to use the new technologies to change established and expensive processes and facilities, the threat to the physical academic library has perhaps never been greater This paper discusses why the physical library is threatened, why it is important to preserve the physical library and what steps can be taken to ensure its continued existence and ability to flourish in the digital realm. In the academic sphere ultimately, by viewing ourselves as active partners in the learning and research process, libraries and librarians will perhaps finally be seen for the value they add to the university and its programs beyond the traditional roles of preservation and dissemination of the printed text.