Search results

Discusses “grey literature”, in other words literature of small circulation. Shows that there is a lack of appropriate statistical and other data on either the acquisition or availability of this type of literature, both at the Institute of Information in Social Sciences and in general. Provides the most important characteristics of “grey” literature, including the range of topics which it covers, an evaluation of its validity, the methods of its registration and bibliographic control, and the modes of access to it by users, including foreign users. Concludes with the hope that a new and more comprehensive study of the users of USSR “grey” literature will be organized in the not‐too‐distant future.

This paper outlines the principal stages in the development of grey literature (GL), from its first appearance in the post‐war period to its evolution into electronic GL. To this end, the study analyses some of the most important studies and conferences organised up to the 1990s. It also examines the first bibliographies and databases, which transformed the way in which GL was collected and distributed. The second part of the paper briefly outlines the main subjects addressed at international GL conferences, identifying both elements of continuity with earlier work and new developments.