Crowther, J.L. and Trott, B. (2004). Partnering with purpose: A guide to strategic partnership development for libraries and other organizations. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.

Partnership development is examined from an historical perspective, taking into account agreements, expectations, and opportunities. The discussion then focuses on seven motivating factors for governments to form strategic partnerships, such as accessing specialized knowledge of potential partners, and developing political mandates to collaborate with other organizations. Further, four significant steps related to establishing an internal foundation within a library are outlined. The purpose of this foundation is to provide purpose, direction, coherence, and evaluation. The authors stress that their book does not adopt an academic or research-based approach to partnership development.

Davies, J.S. (2004). Conjuncture or disjuncture? An institutionalist analysis of local regeneration partnerships in the UK. International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, 28(3), 570-585.

Institutional theory is implemented to examine the development of urban regeneration partnerships within four, English urban areas. This research focuses on four salient issues that include determining the extent of partnerships following a path-dependent course, and examining the dominant patterns of institutional constraint in partnerships. The broader issue of government support for partnerships and the potential collapse of partnerships is also addressed. A notable finding suggests that partnerships are not path-dependent, but they are path-shaping arenas where different values and governing mechanisms compete.