kirjastokirjastot

Kirjastokirjastot, a Finnish term often translated as "library libraries" or "meta-libraries," refers to a system or concept where libraries themselves are cataloged and organized in a structured manner. This goes beyond simple directory listings of libraries in a region. Instead, it focuses on the resources, services, and operational aspects of libraries as entities. A kirjastokirjastot system aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the library landscape, detailing what each library offers, its specializations, its collections, and how users can access them.

The primary purpose of a kirjastokirjastot is to facilitate discovery and access. For patrons, it can help them locate the most suitable library for their needs, whether it's for a specific book, a specialized database, or a particular service like interlibrary loan. For library professionals, it serves as a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the collective library system, enabling better resource allocation, collaboration, and the identification of service gaps. It can also be instrumental in developing national or regional library strategies and policies.

Such systems often involve detailed metadata about each participating library, including information on opening hours, staffing, technological infrastructure, and even the types of programming offered. The implementation of a kirjastokirjastot can vary from a simple online database to a more sophisticated interconnected digital platform. In essence, it treats libraries as catalogable units, providing a higher level of organization and accessibility to the entire library network.