Abstract
Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide a retrospective overview of total quality management (TQM) in the context of library services.Design methodology approach - This paper presents a study of TQM and a comparative analysis of TQM in the library context.Findings - Studies of both theoretical principles and experimental implementations demonstrate that it is worthwhile to introduce TQM to the academic libraries. The process of implementing TQM in libraries involves a conceptual change in library professionals and a cultural transformation in the organizational operations. Without a long-term thinking and commitment, it is not applicable. Teamwork is important for successful implementation of TQM. Every step of the process depends upon the constant support of the top management. Their role determines how far and how long the implementation can go. Therefore, once a decision is made to apply TQM, a strong leadership is required.Research limitations implications - It is still too early to predict that TQM is a perfect model for library management.Originality value - TQM provides a model and benchmark as guidelines in making new strategies in libraries facing today's great changes. It is arguable whether it is feasible to apply the principles without reservation, but it is reasonable to adopt the techniques with adaptations suitable to the library environment.