Approaches to the storage of low use and last copy research materials

Abstract

This paper draws together the issues regarding the retention of print collections for academic libraries in a digital environment. The discussion focuses on a fundamental mission of academic libraries – ensuring ongoing access to older research material; leaving the discussion of the other key mission, providing current and relevant publications, to be discussed in other forums. The paper incorporates a review of approaches from the literature and from the authors' own experiences. Issues discussed include selecting material, development and management of print repositories, pros and cons of institutional or cooperative facilities and economic aspects. Although the focus is international particular references are made to the Australian experience. The authors suggest that a network of national, and ideally international, print repositories will provide the most reliable and cost-effective solution.