The evidence‐based academic library: Maurice Line and the Parry Report

Abstract

PurposeTo describe the part played by Maurice Line in the use of survey evidence and performance information in the management of academic libraries, commencing with the publication of the “Parry Report” in 1967.Design/methdology/approachThe Parry Committee found little practical evidence in 1963, and had to commission some work. Two studies carried out by Line at Southampton University were available, and this and other work by Line featured significantly in the committee's work. The emergence of Line as a major figure in the development of academic and research libraries, the further development of the use of an evidence‐based approach to the management of academic libraries, and the links between these two factors are outlined.FindingsThe advance of Line's professional career was accompanied by a substantial output of highly‐regarded professional writing, which incorporated original thought and an evidence‐based approach to a degree which was unusual for that time, especially from somebody in a relatively junior post. The paucity of similar work prior to 1970 is outlined and the development of the empirical approach, especially through the work of the newly‐founded Library Management Research Unit (LMRU) is described. The 1976 report of the Atkinson Committee is portrayed as confirming the importance of evidence for the future management of academic libraries.Originality/valueSketches the early stages of a career which has had a profound impact on the development of academic and research libraries since 1960.