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About DALNET

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History of DALNET

Informational Brochure

Detroit Area Library Network (DALNET) is a consortium of various types of libraries. The consortium, incorporated in 1985, is open to academic, public, school and special libraries as well as information organizations.

DALNET members agree to participate in some or all consortium ventures and remain committed to resource sharing. DALNET strives to engage in cost-effective practices to insure that members' investments are maximized; to share local and central site expertise; to be efficient in all operational areas; to gather, evaluate and distribute relevant information before reaching a decision; to respect local institutional values/principles and operational priorities; and to develop effective group processes for good decision-making. These principles and the full participation of members enables DALNET librarians to play a leadership role in the delivery of information at their institutions and to meet research, professional, cultural, and recreational needs of their users.

DALNET policy is set by its Board of Directors. Decision-making is accomplished with every member institution having representation on the DALNET Board and, if desired, in various policy-making committees and task forces. The Executive Committee of the Board includes the Board Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary, as well as four Member At Large seats. Elections for Board Officers are held annually.


The Information Gateway

Members of DALNET help to create a model information gateway. This gateway to information resources worldwide supports the research, cultural enrichment, and lifelong learning needs of the people served and improves access to unique local information, special collections, and services available through DALNET member institutions.

Behind the online system that users see, DALNET shared system members have access to a fully integrated library services platform used to automate and manage their operations, including acquisitions and access for traditional print materials as well as electronic resources.