The aim of this thesis is to analyse the debate surrounding the implementation of specific library issue systems (the Browne issue system and the Gothenburg issue system) in early twentieth century Sweden. Utilising discourse analysis as a theoretical basis, several articles published in the trade magazine Folkbiblioteksbladet between 1903 and 1911 have been analysed. The articles contain argumentation in favour of either of the two issue systems, through which it is possible to analyse larger ideas regarding the nature of the emerging public libraries in Sweden. Through close reading of these articles, four main discourses as well as a fifth overarching discourse have been identified: efficiency, statistics, guiding, uniformity, and finally control. These discursive discussions both inform and reveal the shape that the debate takes, as well as reveal an understanding of the ideals existing surrounding the formation of the new public libraries in Sweden. The study shows that the influence of the Anglo-American library sphere, as well as a strong interest in technological development and a modernisation of society at large contributed to the issue system debate and subsequently to the formation of the modern Swedish public libraries. Regarding the issue system specifically it was the Browne issue system which became the more widely implemented one in Sweden.  This is a two-year master’s thesis in library and information science.

Library conference presentation / Today, academic libraries are not only providing access to books and space to users, but they also offer a digital environment that enables patrons to use the library without visiting them physically. Like living organisms, libraries are influenced by external pressures to constantly evolve, including, changing information technology environment and greater dependence on web-based services. Some large academic libraries, for example, use automated robots in combination with RFID technology and data from the library’s bibliographic and holdings records to retrieve from storage and deliver books that have been requested by users. Whilst this application of technology is newer for libraries, it is not cutting-edge for the industry. However, it is an example of how libraries are already making use of the processes that are arising out of developments, which are increasingly part of the new industrial revolution. It seems reasonable to expect that in the future, as we will see increasing use of Industry 4.0 style technologies and processes applied to the execution of routine library work and services for patrons. The new requirement for universities is to be able to track the skills demands within the industry and move quickly to make sure that students leave their education ready to add real value to business internationally. Since academic libraries are part of a university set-up, they exist to serve the goals of its organization. Therefore, every library programme must and should support universities total programme