The Acquisition of Monographis in Large Academic Scientific Research Libraries

Abstract

This article discusses current issues and problems in the process of acquiring scientific monographs in large academic scientific research libraries. The use and value of monographic material, the broad scope of the collections, the libraries' diverse clientele and the competing demands for resource dollars are described. Approval plans are discussed at length. Cooperative agreements results in faster access to materials at other institutions, cooperative purchase of expensive or little used materials and vendor discounts. Changing technology has implications both for the acquisitions process itself and the formats in which material will be acquired.