When One Plus One Remains One

Abstract

Following the trend for library mergers of various configurations, the recent union of a state university with a private specialized university, each with its own library, provides insight into this ongoing phenomenon. The issues involved in such a vision occur on many fronts, including administrative decisions, technological implementation, physical plant management, and staff commitment. All of these require considerable strategic planning, sometimes in the shadow of time constraints. The author addresses the challenges, the benefits, and the potential problems resulting from the merger of two university libraries and the implications for other libraries considering a similar amalgamation.