Academic Library Services: The Literature of Innovation

Abstract

Innovation has the potential for increasing the effectiveness of information service. As a result of this interest in innovation, organizational theorists have begun to explore the effect of organizational design upon flexibility, creativity, and productivity of organizations. A review of existing literature, however, provides no comprehensive theory of organizational innovation. Research on organizational design and innovation in libraries could contribute to the systematic study of the impact of organizational structure. Studies by Howard and Luquire indicate that traditional library organizations may inhibit change as well as the reexamination of values and service. Further study is needed to determine how libraries can most effectively manage innovation in the rapidly changing environment ahead.