Developing criteria for the withdrawal of print content available online

Abstract

Purpose -Limited physical and financial resources and changing customer behaviors compelled the University of Arizona Science-Engineering Library to pursue more flexible collection management options, such as removing print copies of journals as the library purchased the electronic backfiles. The purpose of this paper is to describe a process used at the library to compare electronic journals to their print counterparts. Design/methodology/approach -The library's approach was to study the electronic content provided through Elsevier's ScienceDirect for completeness and quality of text and images. This was to ensure that the removal of print would minimally impact library customers while reclaiming building space that could be better utilized to meet changing customer needs. Findings -The process uncovered the reality that the electronic backfiles were not always adequate substitutes for print copies. In response, it was necessary to open a dialogue with the publisher to share the library's findings that resulted in improved electronic backfiles. Originality/value -This paper weighs the advantages and disadvantages of taking a transformational approach to collection management.

Full-Text Databases: A Case Study Revisited a Decade Later

“…9 They found that even in more stable e-journal collections, such as ScienceDirect, problems with missing issues and poorly scanned images could occur.…”

Looking Back, Moving Forward in the Digital Age

“…University of Arizona Libraries' Bracke and Martin analyzed electronic content from ScienceDirect for completeness and quality in deciding to discard print and reallocate space. 166 Assessment for decision-making support in academic program reviews was undertaken at Oregon State University by Bobal, Mellinger, and Avery. 167 They questioned the worth of assessment when it does not help to increase library budget allocations for new programs.…”

Full-Text Databases: A Case Study Revisited a Decade Later

“…9 They found that even in more stable e-journal collections, such as ScienceDirect, problems with missing issues and poorly scanned images could occur. 9 They found that even in more stable e-journal collections, such as ScienceDirect, problems with missing issues and poorly scanned images could occur.…”