A study on typical models and basic elements of the regional public library union construction based on cases of the public library alliance in China

The public libraries are facing dramatic changes in the global economic environment. Most public libraries begin to focus on service instead of service technologies themselves and quickly, exactly and individually offer the services for normal users. The public library service consortia in China are under development and have established the provincial, city and county library model of the three-tier system. This paper introduces the models and the current situation of public library union. And it also analyzes the significance and the role of establishment of public library union. Meanwhile, from social function of public library, especially the counties (districts) public library; it explains the basic idea and elements of public library union construction in the public cultural service system.