Success factors for the future of information centres, commercial and public libraries: a study from Germany.

Purpose -- The purpose of this paper is to identify success factors in commercial and public libraries. Design/methodology/approach -- The paper is based on research carried out in various commercial and public libraries and information centres in Germany. Findings -- The development of the internet and end user empowerment in searching threatens the role of conventional librarians and information professionals. A number of suggestions are made as to how they can reposition themselves for this radically changed environment. Originality/value -- This is one of the few studies in English of German commercial libraries. The suggestions for repositioning will also be of interest to document supply librarians in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]