Wilson, T.L. (Fall, 2005). “The community user in the academic art library”, Art Documentation, v24n2, p. 38-42.

“…the nature of art is such that it contributes to the common good, and all should have the opportunity to partake in things art-related…”

The idea of the “community user” is discussed here. Though generally it is thought that allowing just anybody into the art library is a travesty, the argument is made for the opposite, as library content and programming can benefit everyone, and bring awareness and support for an otherwise overlooked field.

The issues surrounding use of the materials, both print and electronic, prove complex, as the community user should be able to freely access anything. But, of course, many of the electronic databases require gigantic subscripton fees, and it is difficult to justify paying these fees and letting unaffiliated users access these for free while affiliated users pay in tuition or fees.

The author encourages readers to be proactive and realize the benefit of community users in their libraries.