SPECIAL LIBRARIES Meaning and
Definition
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Special libraries are libraries that are distinct from public and academic libraries and serve specific user groups with unique information needs. These libraries are typically focused on specialized subjects, industries, or organizations. They are established and maintained by businesses, government agencies, non-profit organizations, museums, research institutions, law firms, hospitals, and other entities to support the specialized research and informational requirements of their staff, members, or target audience.
Special libraries provide information resources and services tailored to the needs of their particular users. They curate collections comprising books, journals, reports, documents, audiovisual materials, and digital content related to the specialized subject matter they serve. These libraries often subscribe to specialized databases and offer access to electronic journals and other online resources specific to the field or industry they cater to.
The primary objective of special libraries is to support research, decision-making, and problem-solving within their specialized domains. They employ subject experts and librarians who possess an in-depth knowledge of the subject matter covered by the library and can provide specialized assistance to users in locating and retrieving relevant information.
In addition to traditional library services such as reference assistance and document delivery, special libraries may also offer value-added services such as current awareness services, competitive intelligence, technical research, patent searches, and specialized training programs. They often play a crucial role in promoting innovation, generating new knowledge, and supporting informed decision-making within their respective organizations or user groups.
Etymology of SPECIAL LIBRARIES
The term "special libraries" can be broken down into two parts - "special" and "libraries".
- "Special" derives from the Latin word "specialis", which means "particular" or "part of a whole". It later developed into the Old French word "special", retaining the same meaning. The term came into English in the late 13th century, referring to something distinct or separate from others.
- "Libraries" originates from the Latin word "librarium" or "liber", meaning "book". It passed through Old French as "librairie" before entering English as "library" in the late 14th century. The word refers to a collection of books and other materials organized for reading or research.
Therefore, the term "special libraries" describes libraries that are distinct or separate from others, often focusing on specific subject areas, industries, or institutions.
