<DIV>Despite the fact that they have different legal statuses, legal frameworks, and operational workflows, some politicians and bureaucrats think that there is much to gain if libraries and archives work closely together or even merge. Veteran archivist and librarian Tomas Lidman analyzes the facts and arguments behind a growing debate as to what extent libraries and archives are fulfilling the same missions. Offering a simple but comprehensive background to explain the key issues, this book stimulates debate, brings forth valuable facts, and presents scenarios for the future as libraries and archives approach the digital crossroads. Focusing on national libraries and national and regional archives from an international point of view, this book provides librarians and archivists with the history and facts they need to better inform their decisions.</div>