Synergizing library discovery: Lessons from technical and public services collaborations

Abstract

Traditional academic library models often separate public and technical services into different focus areas. Each of these approaches the core library service of connecting users to information from opposite ends. The following articles document individual cases in which the work of these seemingly disparate disciplines overlaps, highlighting the strengths of each and focusing on suggestions for a more holistic approach to library services. Takeaways include the importance of regular opportunities for interaction, familiarizing staff with any department-specific terminology, actively recognizing the skills and contributions of different service areas, and enlisting buy-in from all levels for facilitating a collaborative working environment focused on student and patron success.

Keywords:

• Academic libraries
• technical services
• public services
• collaboration
• holistic service

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Chad Deets

Chad Deets serves as Metadata Librarian for Specialized Collections at Arizona State University. He supports accurate description and discovery of information within the university’s institutional repositories as well as specialized print collections. He earned a Master of Library and Information Science from San Jose State University and Bachelor of Arts degrees in History and Political Science from Arizona State University.