Library Co-Operation and Networking:-Nnadozie, Chizoba D.

Abstract

Most libraries in developing and developed nations are faced with shortfalls in the provision of information resources and services. However, in the present era of information explosion, the needs of information users have increased considerably. As such, no single library can, independently meet their users' information needs. This has necessitated linkages and co-operation between libraries regardless of type and size, for sharing of available resources and information (Awa & Kalu, 2017). Consequently, the terms "library co-operation", "library networking", "library linkages", "library collaboration", and "library consortia" are used to represent the formal and informal co-operation, partnership and resource sharing activities between or among libraries (Satiga & Dehigama, 2016). In the words of Satija and Dehigama (2016), varieties of words are used to define these collaborative efforts. These words according to the authors include: connect, consult, cooperate, collaborate, collude, conference, committee, coalition, consortium, corporation, and community. Be that as it may, these words which originate from the short form of the Latin word, "with", suggest the coming together of distinct parties to achieve a common end, in activities usually limited in time and space