Revisiting interlibrary loan best practices: still viable?

Abstract

Purpose -This paper evaluates the impact of the Group Interlibrary Loan Best Practices instituted by the Greater Western Library Alliance (GWLA) Libraries in 2002 and examines if these best practices are still viable today. The authors provide an updated discussion on current best practices in both GWLA and other highly effective library consortia. Design/methodology/approach -The authors use a case study approach to identify areas where interlibrary loan best practices have improved service amongst the GWLA Libraries. In addition, the practices of other high performing consortia are included to further the discussion. Findings -The GWLA Libraries found that the best practices implemented in 2002 improved service by decreasing turnaround time and increasing patron access to alternate format types. Other library consortia are also using similar group best practices that improve resource sharing. Research Limitations -This article focuses mostly on the beneficial outcomes of the best practices and limits discussion of the problems and pitfalls encountered. Originality/value -Readers will gain an understanding of how instituting group best practices can improve interlibrary loan service and recognize the benefit of library groups.

An overview of the current state of interlibrary loans in South Africa

“…Developments in technology and improvements in access to information resources have led to increased expectations by clients with key factors being turnaround time and alternative delivery mechanisms (Goldner and Birch, 2012). Kochan and Leon (2013) in a discussion of a best practice framework for ILLs conclude that there will be a continual need for the service in the foreseeable future, but how this is done will evolve, and it is necessary to be on the lookout for ways of improving the service. Technology is the key in this regard, and with rapid technological change, it is necessary to select tools that will save time and improve efficiency.…”

“…From the literature study, it was possible to identify significant developments that have also affected South African interlending, namely, the expansion of the higher education sector (Council on Higher Education, 2013;Department of Higher Education and Training, 2013); the evolution of technology and systems for interlending (Kochan and Leon, 2013), culminating in the OCLC WorldShare ILL platform (OCLC, 2014a(OCLC, , 2014b(OCLC, , 2014c(OCLC, , 2014d; increased expectations by clients for rapid delivery of services (Goldner and Birch, 2012); and electronic information resources that augment physical collections (Goldner and Birch, 2012).…”

We Sincerely Regret to Inform You That the Material You Have Requested Is Unavailable via Interlibrary Loan

“…The underlying philosophy is for lenders to "treat other member libraries' patrons the same as their own." (Kochan, 2013) The GWLA Collection Development Committee also has a history of collaborative projects and group purchasing. More recently it has begun exploring what it might mean to do some kind of collaborative collection development.…”