SCONUL has published a report exploring the opportunities for new shared services in the library space. The Shared services in academic and research libraries report is the outcome of a roundtable meeting of SCONUL library directors at the end of May 2025, and it includes:

• A general assessment of the benefits of shared services for libraries
• A list of seven opportunities for the library community, including benefits, barriers and suggested next steps
• A list of existing shared services in the library space.

The SCONUL Board and Strategy Groups will be taking this debate forward, including talking to members, peer organisations and stakeholders about priorities and focus.

Other resources

Opportunities for efficiency through shared services, Universities UK commissioned report, led by Jisc, published August 2025