Transforming library practices: Strategic pathways from general curation to special collections management

Abstract

This study investigates strategic pathways for transitioning from general library curation to special collections management in national libraries, with a focus on Taiwan’s National Central Library. As the preservation of rare and culturally significant materials gains institutional priority, libraries must adopt structured change processes to address technological, organizational, and policy challenges. Grounded in Lewin’s three-stage model and Kotter’s eight-step framework, this research employs a qualitative case study approach combining document analysis, policy review, and semi-structured expert interviews. Findings reveal that institutional readiness, cross-sector collaboration, and strategic resource allocation are critical enablers of successful transformation. Key implementation strategies include the digitization of fragile materials, the integration of metadata standards, staff training, and the restructuring of workflows. Furthermore, sustained policy support and long-term funding are essential to maintaining operational continuity and cultural stewardship. This study contributes a practical framework for managing change in national libraries and offers insights into the broader discourse on cultural heritage preservation and digital curation.