Redefining cooperation: a qualitative study for the URBS library network

Abstract

The article describes part of the results of the postdoc research project Creative solutions for shaping and realising the vision of the modern research library (in the humanities and the social sciences). The research aimed at investigating sustainable cooperation models among research library networks active in the humanities, by taking into account their organizational and financial challenges. The case study examined within the research project was the URBS network (Unione romana biblioteche scientifiche). The article illustrates the qualitative methods used in order to redefine the cooperative model of the URBS network: a series of interviews to the libraries’ directors, a brainstorming meeting and two focus groups. It also describes the results of an international workshop with library specialists which has been organised for the network. Finally, it includes a set of recommendations for the redefinition of the URBS libraries’ cooperation model.