To identify the issues associated with the introduction of desk top document supply to workers in the UK National Health Service (NHS).
Abstract
Purpose
To identify the issues associated with the introduction of desk top document supply to workers in the UK National Health Service (NHS).
Design/methodology/approach
This paper assesses network models from five countries: Australia, the USA, Italy, Iceland, and Canada, and BIREME, a Latin American and Caribbean network. Factors considered will include library types involved, organizational structure of library systems, length of system implementation, formats of documents involved, and efficiency of the system. Funding and pricing structures, where information is available, are described.
Findings
Complementary collections are necessary for the widest, most cost‐effective access to information. Access to electronic resources does not alleviate the need for remote document supply. Automation of library systems should improve the user experience, but does not necessarily replace the need for the involvement of library services and staff. Using software that conforms to the ISO ILL protocol and other industry standards such as Z39.50 allows for coordination of and improved efficiency of remote document supply (RDS) processes. Centralization of RDS does not guarantee an efficient service for users.
Originality/value
Provides insights into current thinking in the NHS for delivering material electronically directly to end users.
Details
Keywords
The purpose of this paper is to provide a summary of the key themes and content of the Evidence Based Library and Information Practice 6 conference, held at the University of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide a summary of the key themes and content of the Evidence Based Library and Information Practice 6 conference, held at the University of Salford (UK) in June 2011.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper summarises the content, themes and issues discussed during this conference.
Findings
This conference covered a number of themes highly relevant to current library and information practitioners and researchers. These included the link between research and practice; the validity of different types of evidence; and the importance of addressing local needs with local evidence.
Originality/value
The conference provided an insight into the key issues around evidence‐based practice in librarianship and information science, and suggested several areas where future development may be possible.