Assessing the impact of the BLDSC price increases: the experience of CHILL, a consortium of London health libraries

摘要

Purpose - The article aims to present the findings of research relating to the document supply practices of member libraries of the Consortium of Independent Health Information Libraries in London. It concentrates on developments between 2002 and 2004 and explores whether there has been a discernible reaction to the BLDSC tiered charges. Design/methodology/approach - The research was originally carried out as part of a Master's dissertation submitted at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth in 2005. The study was based on a survey of the member libraries of the Consortium. Findings - Some discrepancies with general trends and previous research findings are identified. The unique nature of the Consortium and the variety amongst its members, in terms of both their size and their audience, is seen as the primary reason for these findings. Internal factors are recognised as playing a crucial role in influencing the demand and service levels that an individual institution is able to offer. The research does identify isolated incidents of a direct reaction to the BLDSC tiered charges but concludes that support for the services remains strong. Research limitations/implications - The scope of the research did not include the gathering of statistical data which might support the findings. Originality/value - This work is original in scope and explores an area that has attracted little previous research or comment.