Describes results of a survey that was conducted to compile statistical data on collection growth and library expenditures in academic libraries. Data from liberal arts college libraries are compared with data from members of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), library statistics are discussed, and significant trends are described. (32…

Sufficient allocation from federal research budgets should cover the costs of disseminating new scientific and technological information resulting from government research and development. This would relieve libraries from subsidizing part of it through their subscriptions, strengthen a national bibliographic structure, and promote broader user…

The future of college and research libraries is discussed in the context of the changing role of academic librarians, the assistance technology may give to libraries, the political activity required to achieve government aid for libraries, and the future of higher education. (Author/AWP)

A description of the methodology used in collecting performance data in a large academic research library is given. Twelve types of surveys used to measure and evaluate users, services, and materials were developed. Costs of providing research services were found to be 64 percent versus 36 percent for instructional purposes (1 reference)…

The trend toward extensive computerization of the processes of research libraries is indicated as excessive, uncritical and inefficient. (JN)

Argues that recent dramatic increases in the numbers and prices of scholarly journals are evidence of a distorted economic marketplace for scholarly information. The discussion covers the strategies needed to reshape the current system of scholarly communication and the need for leadership within the research library community. (34 references)…

Turn over in the position of university library directors has increased markedly in the past decade. Seventy-eight large university libraries have been investigated to identify problems and make recommendations. Planning, budgeting, and the relationship of the library to the university are discussed. (70 references) (DH)

Discusses the pressure placed on research libraries to maintain a balanced collection of serials and monographs, and presents an allocation formula for serial versus monograph budgeting. The formula is based on the findings of over 50 studies that used citation analysis to determine the actual percentage of serials versus monographs used by…

First published in 1944, this article predicts unprecedented growth for American university libraries, and examines the underlying causes of this growth. The use of microforms and cooperative cataloging to control library costs is recommended. A brief introduction to the article is included. (CLB)

The characteristics of paper or microform library materials, electronic publications, and online databases are compared in terms of equipment needs, cost effectiveness, budgeting, and satisfaction of users' needs. Suggestions for the effective integration of these materials are offered. (13 references) (CLB)

Describes a longitudinal study of serial cancellations that was conducted by analyzing the cancellation lists between 1987 and 1990 from five midwestern member libraries of the Association of Research Libraries. Highlights include serial cancellation prices, language and place of publication, Library of Congress subject analysis, and collection…

Describes a study that examined changes in the directors of Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member libraries from 1970-89. Directors' characteristics are discussed, including gender, previous position held, age, and highest degree; library characteristics are described, including size of collection and expenditures; and literature about…

Reports the results of a survey of liberal arts college libraries which focused on the collections, facilities, and personnel of science libraries. Responses from colleges with strong science programs (i.e., research colleges) are compared with data received from other liberal arts colleges. Four figures and one table are provided. (SD)