ABSTRACT
While large libraries and systems benefit from their size and their ability to provide many services, a small library can find a great deal of strength and support as a member of a library consortium. Library consortia offer the small and medium-size library a number of beneficial centralized services such as:
Centralized interlibrary loan
Staff continuing education and training
Special materials cataloging
Daily courier services
Information technology consulting
Information maintenance assistance
A consortium-maintained OPAC
Consortium-negotiated licensed databases
Timely reporting on all services
Consortium annual report
Closer connection to other member libraries in the consortium
