Assesses the changes in interlibrary loan (ILL) practices, and points the way to an ideal future. Discusses patron-initiated document request systems; library-mediated ordering systems; document delivery suppliers; accessing electronic resources; ILL management software; paying ILL invoices; new electronic delivery options; and results of a…

Government agencies are adopting electronic-information-dissemination strategies which both challenge established dissemination structures and offer new access opportunities for all libraries. This article explores the implications of this change and describes the initiative of one medium-sized, non-depository library to become a government…

Discusses four trends relating to document delivery (DD), its future, and its impact on both the publisher and the library: (1) growth of DD; (2) acceptance of DD as a component of collection development and interlibrary loan; (3) move toward electronic publishing and delivery; and (4) growing voice of the author. Eight charts illustrate trends.…

Examines the role of commercial document delivery. Discusses interlibrary loan (ILL); access versus ownership decision making; degree of use and patron use of commercial document delivery; and use of library materials funds. Concludes that document delivery will not totally replace ownership or ILL, but that it is becoming more important because…

This report identifies potential issues that the Cornell University Library (CUL) might face in supporting distance learning, and recommends solutions. While the precise budgetary implications are uncertain, additional resources, services, and personnel will need to be accounted for in the cost of serving distance learners. The report addresses:…