Bibliographic Data Bases in Collection Development

Abstract

The literature on the use of batch and on-line bibliographic data bases in collection development activities is reviewed. A sample of special libraries and medium-sized research libraries was surveyed to see how widespread is the use of on-line data bases in selection and collection evaluation. It was found that on-line data bases are being used primarily for bibliographic verification as part of the selection process. Very little use in collection evaluation was reported, although its potential was acknowledged. The author's use in evaluation is described.