Integrated Infonnation Services in University Environments

Abstract

Can or should universities integrate "technology-based" administrative and academic support services, including the academic library, into a single information services division? This article gives a history of integrated information services, details successful mergers, and explores professional and organizational issues that create conflict instead of collaboration. Newer, more flexible higher education environments may be more conducive to integration, and a focus on information "services " rather than on "technology-based" units are the keys to fostering cross-functional collaboration.