The Effect of Information Technology on Library Acquisitions: Experiences at the University of the North, South Africa

Abstract

Information technology has eliminated many routine tasks and increased speed in the acquisition of materials. Reduced library budget is forcing the acquisitions staff to be on the alert to new free online information and ensure that user access to information is increased, promoted and enhanced. Free electronic sources, some of which offer fulltext access, are being identified on the Web, through listservs and aggregator services. New tasks include designing the acquisitions Web page, ensuring continuous access to information and processing of licence agreements. Future plans include hyperlinks from bibliographic records in the OPAC and construction of a subscription database.


(African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science: 2002 11 (1): 25-38)