Work

Subject librarianship in Japan: Case study of the University of Tokyo's Asian Research Library

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the introduction of subject librarians (SLs) in Japanese university libraries through a case study of the University of Tokyo's Asian Research Library (ARL), founded in 2020. While SLs have long been institutionalized in the US and the UK, their adoption in Japan remains limited. This study draws on meeting minutes, recruitment documents, and interviews with stakeholders and librarians, this research aims to clarify the roles, qualifications, and institutionalization of SLs in the Japanese context. The findings reveal that the initiative originated in discussions in 2007 and was institutionalized after the opening of the ARL. Furthermore, by examining the actual roles of SLs and the required qualities and by comparing conditions before and after the system's introduction, the study highlights the significance of this institutional shift. Despite achievements, challenges remain, such as the ambiguous institutional status of SLs and limited personnel resources. The study concludes that The University of Tokyo's experience offers a new valuable model for other institutions considering SL implementation. This case study contributes to bridging the research gap on SLs in Japan and provides insights for international academic library practices.

Source: The Journal of Academic Librarianship

DOI: 10.1016/j.acalib.2026.103216

Authors: Jia Zeng, Shuntaro Kawamura

Institution: The University of Tokyo

Language: English

Topic: Library Science and Information

Subfield: Information Systems

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,990

Funder: University of Tokyo