A Voyage Through the Norwegian Library Landscape and Some Challenges on the Horizon

Norway has a well-developed library system and can point to increased activity in recent years. Norwegian libraries have adapted themselves to meet the needs of their users in our modern, network society. The libraries are digital and offer their services across administrative boundaries. Virtual library services have been developed as a supplement to the physical library, thereby contributing to an increased use of resources and higher quality across the whole range of services. The aim is to offer members of the public good library services throughout the country, regardless of their place of residence and the resources of their local library. Libraries are part of a joint network forming a local, regional and national structure. A strategic survey is now under way in order to develop this network further and to guard against any deterioration. There is a clear need for coordination at national, regional and local levels in order to ensure a seamless library service.