A prescriptive model for planning and implementing a resource sharing and information networking system among Saudi university libraries

The purposes of this study were to investigate and analyze the condition of the present systems of university libraries in Saudi Arabia, to determine the perceptions of the librarians in the seven universities toward collaboration, and to design a prescriptive model for resource sharing and information network system among Saudi university libraries.;The design of the study utilized the descriptive research method which comprised review of the related literature and questionnaire survey. Two sets of questionnaires were used. One was directed to the deans of the seven university libraries to collect factual data on the present systems of their libraries, and the other was directed to university librarians to elicit their opinions and perceptions toward the proposed networking system.;The findings of the study revealed that the problems of Saudi university libraries stem from a lack of coordination among these libraries, an absence of national planning, an insufficient number of professionals, and the present state of shrinking budgets. University librarians perceived the proposed network activities as important factors for improving the current situation. Respondents expressed their concern for the need of a strong institutional leadership, adequate financial support and establishment of a national library and identified a number of obstacles to the establishment of cooperative systems. The majority of respondents expressed the desirability of a cooperative system and felt that it is currently possible to establish such a system.;Based on the findings, the study designed a prescriptive model for establishing a network system among Saudi university libraries. The model is described as a multi-functional distributed network in which all seven university libraries will have a sense of equal being and will communicate directly with one another. The model specified the proposed system's goals and objectives, organizational structure, and network functions and programs including the need to address both current and future demands as well as a wide range of concerns revealed from the study. The model is conceived as a guideline to fill a void and to assist further planning and organization of the proposed system.