In 2003, an evaluation of journal use statistics at Washington State University was undertaken to determine if the selection of electronic journals in the Owen Science and Engineering Library was changing student and researchers’ choice of journals. Use statistics showed that most print journals were being used more than they were prior to the advent of electronic journals. Generally, electronic journals were used heavily and the availability of electronic format greatly enhanced the total use of most titles. However, some electronic journals were used little or not at all, and there was a substantial increase in the use of some print titles.

This study examines journal use in three scientific disciplines. A previous study found that print use increased after electronic access was added. This article uses the same methods to determine if the increase in the use of the paper has continued. A cultural shift has happened between the two studies. Although the use of paper journals increased with the advent of e-journals, a shift in use patterns has occurred and patrons now favor electronic format. There are disciplinary differences in the use of paper and electronic formats. Most journal titles showing increases in print use also were available in electronic format.

This study examines the use of geology journals at Washington State University (WSU), before and after electronic access was provided, to determine if the use of the print collection increased as in the previous studies at WSU of three other science disciplines.The number and source of articles cited by WSU geologists from 1998 to 2004 is also examined to determine the impact of electronic access on citation patterns. In light of inflation and package deals, librarians need to understand how faculty use journals. This analysis will assist librarians in better understanding journal usage to inform future serial purchasing decisions.

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