Selective Dissemination of Microfiche Documents in a University Setting: Phase 1. Final Report. Project CLR-561.

A selective dissemination service (SRIM) of the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) features semimonthly dissemination of microfiche copies of documents newly added to the NTIS collection, on the basis of interest profiles. The service was used to test a university subsystem wherein a number of individual profiles were combined and submitted to NTIS as a composite. Microfiche documents received were duplicated in sufficient copies to meet local distribution requirements, including one copy for library purposes. The study indicates the effect of local agency in stimulating and mediating the use of an SDI system, and the relative economy of local copying and redistribution of microfiche over direct ordering at current NTIS prices. SRIM is evaluated from the viewpoint of middleman and of users engaged in science, technology, and higher education. The categorical structure in which the service is implemented is found wanting in the kind of precision, detail, definition, and stability needed to serve users in this sector. (Author/EMH)