The British Library and University Libraries: A Personal Reflection upon Co‐operation between Libraries Serving Scholarship and Research

Upon its establishment in 1973, the British Library was seen by many university librarians with nervous concern and suspicion. The functions, development and influence the British Library has had on the national library scene since then are described. It is argued that, in a time of financial constraints, there is a need for policies to be developed in closest collaboration between the British Library and university libraries in the best interests of the national research community.