Introduction to the special issue: perspectives on research libraries

Purpose – The aim of this article is to introduce the special issue of Journal of Documentation focusing on perspectives on research libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The paper outlines the theme of the issue and its underlying problems. Findings – The traditional services of research libraries may diffuse to other kinds of institutions. There is, however, a need for information specialists studying and improving research infrastructures. Future services probably need to be more focused, domain-specific and based on research in information science. Originality/value – The introduction is written to assist readers surveying the issue and to share the thoughts of the editors in planning the issue.