Ownership and Access, Database and OPAC: Present and Future Opportunities for Academic Libraries

The pattern of provision of academic library and information services is considered in relation to institutional goals and user needs. The two fundamental strategies of ownership and access are explained and their short‐ to medium‐term development examined. The role of automation in academic libraries is considered, particularly the development of library databases and subject access to them, all in relation to external developments and to improved user service.