The value of the cooperative today

The OCLC cooperative serves libraries and advocates on their behalf.

Using OCLC online systems and software, libraries organize the world’s information—and make it more accessible and useful. OCLC members cooperatively produce and maintain WorldCat—the world’s most comprehensive database of library materials and a tribute to collaborative spirit of libraries. Revenues generated from service use are invested back in the cooperative to build new services, enhance existing ones, fund library-centered research and development and subsidize worthwhile programs for the library community. Working together lowers costs, improves productivity and advances the mission of access to information for all.

The OCLC cooperative also champions libraries with advocacy programs. The goal is to increase their visibility and viability in the communities and world they serve. As members, libraries guide and shape this program with the idea that “branding the library experience” is vital in an era of rising costs and increased competition for funding and mindshare. Programs provide advertising and marketing materials to reinforce the idea of the library as relevant, and market research to identify and communicate trends of importance to the library profession.