Electronic Journals in ARL Libraries: Policies and Procedures. SPEC Kit 201 and Flyer 201.

Scholarly journal publishing is undergoing a transformation from paper to electronic distribution. Members of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) have become pioneers in providing access to electronic journals. Because the policies and procedures that these libraries have developed can be guides for other libraries, a survey was sent to ARL members. Seventy-seven of 119 questionnaires (65% response rate) were returned. Task-force reports from six institutions are presented in a companion kit (Kit 202) from the ARL Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC). Thirty-five libraries currently receive electronic journals, but only five have collection policies that are specifically developed for electronic journals. Fifteen libraries report that selection criteria are different for electronic journals, with technical compatibility the most important aspect of selection. Nearly one-fourth of the libraries have established special procedures for acquiring electronic journals, and approximately one-third have established a BITNET/Internet account for receiving them. Electronic journals are made available in a number of ways, the most common being gopher access, which is access to remote sites through computer and electronic networks. At this time, most are inexpensive or free. A list of 77 selected readings is attached. (SLD)