How to Become a European Social Science Library

Benefits and Challenges of Libraries Working Across Ten Borders

Abstract

This report explores how academic libraries can contribute to, and benefit from, structured international collaboration within the CIVICA alliance framework. CIVICA is a European university network focused on the social sciences. Based on the experiences of ten partner institutions, the report outlines the rationale, governance, benefits and challenges of establishing a cross-border library network. It demonstrates how libraries can enhance their strategic relevance, improve their services and promote professional development through structured cooperation. The report provides practical insights and recommendations for integrating libraries into transnational academic alliances, emphasising the need for greater international engagement by academic libraries.