The start of a new year typically brings optimism and offers the possibility of positive change and new opportunities. Each year we take a long, hard look at our journal collections and subscriptions. We try to balance the amount of use for each title with the mix of subjects and also allow for the addition of a few new titles. In finalizing our list of titles, we ask for ideas from library users, read reviews and then figure out what we can afford to purchase. Since journals are a long term commitment (multiple years - not a one time purchase), we also try to take a “long view” of what people might need in the future. Some think this process is an art; others a science.
This year, we added another dimension to our selection process as we tried to purchase titles that are delivered in electronic format instead of print. We've heard from many of our users that you want to see things at your desktop, linked from the database that you are searching. Taking advantage of the ever-increasing availability of online full-text journal literature and satisfying the preference of our users, the Library made a major policy change regarding journal subscriptions starting in 2006.
When possible, the Library renewed its subscriptions in electronic-only format. In the 325 instances where print was the only format option, or when the print use of a title already available on JEFFLINE was still significant, the print subscription was maintained. This reduction in print subscriptions is good news for the Library because we are rapidly running out of usable shelf space and we will save significantly on bindery costs.
What does this mean for our users?
- In 2006, you will find many more titles in electronic format and many fewer in print on the library's shelves (although we did keep several old favorites and some that are still only available in print).
- E-journals typically offer significant added value over print such as unique information and images, timely updates, alerting services and other customization features.
- You have more opportunities to link from a citation found in a database search to the full text of an article (frequently in PDF format).
- In addition to the conversion from print to electronic of existing subscriptions, you now have access to hundreds of new titles not previously available due to the purchase of multi-title packages or consortia arrangements offered by select publishers.
We continue to strive to provide you with materials that are helpful for your research and study. Please let us know if there are items that you think should be available on campus; we'll do our best to get them!
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