In the spring of 1978, the Virginia State Library commissioned The Computer Company to conduct a feasibility study of the possibility of establishing a statewide library network for the Commonwealth of Virginia. In this report, the authors respond to that study by identifying three areas of concern for academic libraries: (1) the need for academic…

Argues that the gamma mixture of Poisson processes, for all its perceived defects, can be used to make predictions regarding future library book circulations of a quality adequate for general management requirements. The use of the model is extensively illustrated with data from two academic libraries. (Nine references) (CLB)

Proposes and explains a modification of the mixed Poisson model for library circulations which takes into account the periods when a book is out on loan and therefore unavailable for borrowing. Highlights include frequency of circulation distributions; negative binomial distribution; and examples of the model at two universities. (Contains 34…

This assessment of the library profession's response to technological innovation focuses on the handling of nonprint collections. Highlights include definition of nonprint materials; basic considerations in conservation and environmental concerns (temperature, dust, light exposure); the problem of security and storage procedures; and circulation…

This report summarizes the decisions of the Virginia Commonwealth University Joint Committee to Study Library Periodical Services that were scheduled for implementation for the fall 1987 semester. Approved decisions are outlined for the areas of: (1) photocopiers, including photocopy services and Vendacard; (2) bound volumes, including loan…

This report for an automated circulation control system to replace the currently used automated off-line batch system discusses the general requirements for the requested system, the equipment needed, the planned uses and design of the proposed system, its utilization, its expected benefits, its estimated costs, the alternatives considered, and…

The first of two articles discusses the similarities and differences between academic libraries and campus computing centers, and identifies the level of service libraries want from computing centers. The second addresses the advantages of automating library circulation systems, and the need to integrate those systems with other library and campus…

Reports results of a survey of 293 colleges and universities that reveals a growing trend toward making computer software and hardware available to faculty and students, despite potential illicit copying software. The role of the academic library and copyright implications are discussed. Twenty-three references are cited. (EJS)

This study tests the widely cited proposition that 20% of a library's books account for 80% of its circulation. Using data collected for a collection development survey, it was found that of the sample of 4,213 books, 799, or 19%, accounted for 79% of the circulation during 1987. In fact, 25% of the books accounted for all of the circulation that…

As college faculty and students become increasingly sophisticated in the use of microcomputers, academic libraries must resolve common issues involved with the decision to add data disks to their collections, including selection policy, hardware and supplies, acquisition and cataloging, location, staffing, level of service, circulation, and…

Discussion of the merger of separate library units focuses on examples from Indiana State University Libraries' recent merging of the interlibrary loan unit of the reference department with the circulation department to form a new lending services department. Factors to consider in the merging process are discussed, emphasizing staff needs. (seven…

This collection development policy serves as a planning tool for William Paterson College library decision-makers by providing information necessary for the allocation of funds for library materials. As a communications tool it provides guidelines for establishing priorities for the selection of library materials and criteria for the withdrawal of…

This collection of policies for providing access to the collections and services of research libraries for users who are not associated with the library's parent institution includes six examples of general access policies, three documents on reference service, five statements of circulation policies, and descriptions of four cooperative…

Developed in response to issues raised about the circulation of bound periodicals, the cost of photocopies, and the condition of the photocopiers, this report of the Joint Committee to Study Library Periodical Services at the Virginia Commonwealth University libraries recommends goals for periodicals services for both campuses of the university.…

Computers have had a tremendous impact on library services as automation has affected every aspect of library activity. Automated systems may be viewed as either internal, intermediate, or external, and different factors must be considered in planning for various types of systems. Internal systems, which are used only by library personnel, handle…