About this website

Welcome!

This website draws together information about all of the Subject Specialist Networks in the UK. But what is a Subject Specialist Network (SSN)? The main aim of each SSN is to provide advice and guidance about collections, acquisitions, preservation, access, and research on a specific subject area.

SSNs are becoming invaluable in a collections climate which is facing economic restraints. They provide opportunities to network and provide professional advice, information, and expertise on a range of subject areas. There are many such SSNs in existence and you can contact them for support, advice and guidance relating to your own activity. Some SSNs focus specifically on providing advice and guidance, others have a wider role which include advocacy, research, and other key developmental activity.

It is likely that for any single collection, you would access a range of SSN support. This website aims to help you to:

1. Learn about the different SSNs and their activity
2. Find out which SSNs will support your needs
3. Find out how to contact an SSN and get involved in their activity