New Challenges Behind the Scenes: The Changing Role of the Serials Librarian in the Age of E-Publishing

摘要

The explosion of electronic publishing is driving rapid changes in the role of the serials librarian. The acquisition of resources published on the Internet requires different expertise than that of traditional formats and this expertise must range across a broad spectrum of specializations. These specializations include: understanding IP (Internet Protocol) domains and the technicalities of accessing remote computer files, dealing with archiving issues, and reviewing and negotiating licensing agreements. Developments such as continuous and cumulative publishing undermine the traditional definition and management of serial literature, and require entirely new ways of managing the collection. The author will explore the impact these factors are having on the role of the serials librarian within the academic environment.