York University Libraries is the first institution to pilot a new partnership model with Keep@Downsview, a shared print repository based in Toronto, marking a shift in how academic libraries collaborate to preserve and manage low-use print collections.
Through a newly signed agreement with the University of Toronto, on behalf of the Keep@Downsview members, York University Libraries (YUL) will participate as a ‘Share Only Partner.’ The pilot introduces a model that expands opportunities for collaboration, stewardship and shared ownership of print collections.
YUL will collaborate with the University of Toronto to identify low‑use titles already preserved by Keep@Downsview at the U of T Downsview facility. York will then transfer these local holdings to the jointly owned collection, supporting preservation, access and responsible collection management.
This work not disrupt the user experience; YUL users will continue to have seamless access to these titles and can make requests through OMNI for pickup at their preferred location. YUL will share more details on the Libraries website as the pilot proceeds.
“This new model allows us to collaborate in a practical and innovative way,” says Joseph Hafner, dean of Libraries at York. “By aligning our holdings with materials already preserved by Keep@Downsview, we are strengthening shared stewardship of the scholarly record while creating flexibility within our local collections to better serve the York community.”
Keep@Downsview is a shared print program that supports member academic libraries through secure, environmentally controlled storage and co-ordinated collection management. Located in Toronto, the facility is governed by its members and is designed to ensure long-term preservation of scholarly print materials that are infrequently used while reducing unnecessary duplication across institutions.
Current Keep@Downsview partners include the libraries of U of T, McMaster University, the University of Ottawa, Queen's University, Western University and Memorial University. York’s participation as a Share Only Partner expands the initiative’s collaborative framework without altering its shared governance structure.
For YUL, the pilot reflects an ongoing focus on responsible stewardship, collaboration and innovation in library services.
“This pilot underscores our commitment to working collaboratively with peer institutions to steward shared collections for the benefit of current and future scholars,” says Larry Alford, chief librarian, University of Toronto Libraries. “It is an important step in exploring new partnership models that respond to evolving user needs and changing pressures on library collections.”
Hafner says the opportunity reinforces YUL’s commitment to the teaching, learning and research mission of the University “through dynamic collections, inclusive spaces and a strong focus on access, sustainability and scholarly communication.”
This partnership agreement will be assessed as a pilot, with YUL and Keep@Downsview working together to evaluate its effectiveness and potential for broader adoption.