Abstract |
This research attempts to investigate the development of special collections in Taiwan’s university libraries. The data were collected through conducting semi-structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The findings of this research are as follows: The main reason that contributes to the development of special collections is the inheritance of existing resources. In many libraries, the collection development policies cover special collections development. The most common development type of special collections is its subject disciplines, while the major factor that influences the development of special collections is library space. The biggest incentives for developing special collections are the prospect of enhancing the general quality and quantity of the collection. However it may lead to the neglect of the development of general collections. Each library uses a different management style, and the same library may have a number of different styles. Most libraries provide equal access to their special collections for both internal and external patrons, but they are almost always limited to library use only. Using library website is the most common way for a library to promote its special collections.
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