swatchikirjastosta

Swatchikirjastosta is a concept related to the Finnish library system, specifically referring to a library's collection of items that are less frequently borrowed or used, but still retained for their value or potential future demand. These items are often stored in a more compact or remote location within the library, or sometimes off-site, to free up prime shelf space for more popular materials. The term literally translates to "Swatch library" or "reserve library" from Finnish.

The rationale behind swatchikirjastosta is to balance the need for access to a wide range of resources with the practical limitations of physical space. Libraries aim to serve diverse user needs, and while popular fiction and new releases are in constant demand, less common academic texts, older editions, or niche interest materials also play a crucial role. By consolidating these less-accessed items, libraries can optimize their collections and ensure that readily available materials remain easily discoverable.

Accessing items from the swatchikirjastosta typically involves a request process. Users can usually browse the catalog online and place a hold on an item. Once requested, the item is retrieved from its storage location and made available for pickup at a designated branch. This system allows libraries to maintain a deeper and more comprehensive collection than would be feasible if all items were displayed on open shelves. The exact implementation and terminology may vary slightly between different library networks in Finland.