BLC and PALCI Release Consortial Collaboration Framework for Resource Sharing

NISO Member News

The Partnership for Academic Library Collaboration (PALCI) and the Boston Library Consortium (BLC) have announced the publication of a joint report outlining a Consortial Collaboration Framework for Resource Sharing. 

Recognizing the critical role consortia play in collaborative resource sharing, BLC and PALCI formed a joint working group to develop the framework, which guides consortia through the stages of building strategic collaborative partnerships, from initial assessment through implementation and governance:

Cross-consortial resource sharing is ultimately centered on expanding access through intentional collaboration, building networks that are stronger and more resilient than any one organization can create alone. While every consortium operates within its own unique contextual parameters, the experiences reflected in this framework demonstrate that meaningful partnerships can be developed through collectively shared goals and a willingness to align consortially developed policies and best practices. This framework is intended to serve not as a final blueprint, but as a starting point for libraries and consortia to build meaningful partnerships that strengthen their resource sharing services through cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable access to information resources.

The framework is structured for consortia with different needs, offering models for varying levels of collaboration and resource sharing. An accompanying Community Expectations Assessment Report (CEAR) considers barriers to collaboration and outlines requirements for a successful  and sustainable consortial partnership: policy alignment, integration that works within existing systems, and a maintained shared directory for communications.

The full text of the framework can be accessed on both the BLC and PALCI websites.