Print Journals in the Electronic Library: What is Happening to Them?

ABSTRACT

Since electronic journals have become the preferred method for accessing the journal literature, the next logical step is for librarians to carefully evaluate traditional staff activities still focused on the maintenance of shrinking print journal collections. This column discusses shifting approaches to traditional serials workflow activities, including check-in, claiming, binding, and shelf storage, in light of expanded electronic access. The author conducted a brief survey of academic health sciences libraries in the South Central chapter of the Medical Library Association to determine if traditional serials duties were still being maintained and to what extent. The results of the survey are discussed with some recommendations for the future.

KEYWORDS:

• Electronic journals
• journal processing
• print journals
• surveys

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rajia C. Tobia

Rajia C. Tobia, AMLS, AHIP ([email protected]) is Executive Director of Libraries, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Library, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229–3900.

Susan C. Hunnicutt

Susan C. Hunnicutt, MA, MLIS ([email protected]) is Assistant to the Executive Director of Libraries; University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Library, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229–3900.