Serendipitous libraries

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest that holiday libraries have as much design as they have chance.

Design/methodology/approach

Generalizability from experiential anecdote.

Findings

Though ephemeral, such libraries may have items of value and interest, and can have focus and purpose too.

Research limitations/implications

This paper recommends more research based on survey evidence.

Practical implications

Chance collections may nevertheless have items of value, can degrade but also be refreshed and may have a pragmatic role for users.

Social implications

Most users take such collections for granted: a librarian or bibliographer will find them of interest.

Originality/value

This paper is a commentary on an invisible resource.

Citation

Hannabuss, S. (2016), "Serendipitous libraries", New Library World, Vol. 117 No. 1/2, pp. 128-130. https://doi.org/10.1108/NLW-11-2015-0088