Library operations in low-density areas

Low-density areas with a population decline are confronted with the need to close down library branches. As a response to this trend, libraries start to work together in an interconnected network of libraries to maintain a specific service level for their members. Studies
show that typically a significant increase in interlibrary transportation operations can be noticed. In this paper, we analyze the effects of closing down library branches and propose sustainable options for interlibrary transport operations. Transaction data and geographic information system analyses help to study the effects on customer behavior. Social transport is proposed as a way to involve volunteers and members of the library in performing the transport themselves. A SWOT analysis performed to study the potential of social transport by means of using public transport to deliver books to their destination. At the end, we formulate a sketch of a framework for initiating a pilot of this concept.