A Suggestion of Criteria for Categorizing Libraries into Types: Linking between Library and Information

The categorization of libraries into several types supports an understanding of the concept of library and also provides a framework for the practice of library management, such as planning and management. Although a 4-type categorization with public, academic, special, and school libraries is the most traditional and general approach to categorization, the definition of each type has been set enumeratively and inductively, so that it has weaknesses in its clarity between categories and in its applicability to a new environment. In this conceptual paper, deductive and analytical criteria for the 4-type categorization are suggested based on characteristics of information needs. Implications of the suggestions about library management, and especially, the meaning and impact of stakeholders on library management are discussed. Additionally, this paper attempts to put forth a conceptual link between library and information.