Library storage project explored

15 March, 2006

CHEMS Consulting recently reported to CURL (Consortium of Research Libraries in the British Isles) and the British Library that there is already a significant shortage of storage space in UK research libraries, particularly those in higher education. The shortage is expected to increase substantially over the next ten years. CHEMS also examined possible solutions to the problem, and recommended that a collaborative approach, the creation of a 'national research reserve' hosted by the British Library, would be in the best interests of all stakeholders.

In December 2005 CURL and the British Library held an event, open to researchers and all library and information sectors, to consult about the report. Participants strongly supported the recommended option and that further work be carried out to explore its feasibility.

Detailed consideration of the issues is now under way through a Task Force, chaired by Helen Hayes (Vice Principal for Knowledge Management and Librarian, University of Edinburgh). The task force welcomes views from the community on the report and its key recommendations.