While trying to access microform content, patrons at the Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources at Valparaiso University were often hampered by unfamiliar equipment, temperamental software, and a puzzling file management system. In an effort to address these problems, the Access Services Department launched a pilot program for…

Suggests the acquisition of microform serials as a solution to the problems of cost, space, personnel resources, rate of acquisition, and rate of consumption of shelving space associated with library acquisition and maintenance of serials. Cost benefits for a select number of microform serials are considered. Nine references are listed. (EJS)

Delineates the types of decisions involved in the preservation of library collections and suggests decision-making structures and criteria for each type of decision. The information gaps which limit the ability to make intelligent preservation decisions are also discussed. (Author/JL)

Discusses the growing emphasis on preservation in academic libraries and examines the assumptions underlying the prevalent approach of one-time reformatting using microforms. A model for preservation policy and planning based on needs assessment and prioritizing is presented, and alternatives to current practices are considered. (10 references)…

A model based on storage and retrieval costs that determines efficient allocation of materials to different storage regimes in academic libraries is developed. An economically rational basis for determining role of several alternative storage methods which distinguish among materials by expected level of use is offered. Nineteen references are…