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Article
Subject Matrices: An Innovative, Collaborative Approach to Serving the Agricultural Sciences
Journal of Agricultural & Food Information
  • Jenny K Oleen, Western Washington University
  • Livia Olsen
  • Jason Coleman
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-8-2015
Keywords
  • collaboration,
  • library organization,
  • science librarianship,
  • organizational change
Abstract

In 2009, Kansas State University Libraries (K-State Libraries) moved from subject-based departments to user-based departments. From this change, subject matrices, including the Agriculture and Biological Science Matrix, were developed to address subject-related issues. This matrix is comprised of librarians from many K-State Libraries’ departments and is a conduit for sharing information interdepartmentally and developing collaborative opportunities. Libraries wishing to maintain a traditional subject-liaison model can adapt key principles underlying the matrix. Subject liaisons can go beyond siloed perspectives by soliciting advice from individuals outside the library. Another approach is to disturb established structures and introduce selective pressure to inspire innovation.

Subjects - Topical (LCSH)
Libraries and institutions; Libraries and scholars; Agriculturists; Biology teachers
Genre/Form
articles
Type
Text
Language
English
Format
application/pdf
Citation Information
L. M. Olsen, J. M. Coleman & J. K. Oleen (2015) Subject Matrices: An Innovative, Collaborative Approach to Serving the Agricultural Sciences, Journal of Agricultural & Food Information, 16:1, 43-52, DOI: 10.1080/10496505.2014.983600