Adding value: getting to the heart of the matter

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of adding value and in particular to suggest ways in which libraries can add even more value than they do so now.

Design/methodology/approach

With this primarily a literature review combined with some examples of ways in which some libraries are adding value in new and interesting ways. This paper seeks to extend the work of Robert Taylor who developed a Value-Added Model.

Findings

Libraries must find new ways to add value to their collections and services as competitors continue to introduce convenient services that are drawing people away from libraries. The ways in which a library might add new value have been grouped into five broad categories: community, content, context, collaboration, or co-creation and connection. Each category is discussed in some detail and examples are provided to illustrate possibilities.

Originality/value

Exploring ways in which libraries can add value in the life of their customers must become a topic of conversation for librarians everywhere. The mandate to change is ever present and libraries need to introduce new and innovative services that add real value.

Citation

Matthews, J. (2013), "Adding value: getting to the heart of the matter", Performance Measurement and Metrics, Vol. 14 No. 3, pp. 162-174. https://doi.org/10.1108/PMM-08-2013-0024