AbstractudObjectives – This study examines whether acquiring a text in electronic format effectsudthe usage of the print version of the text, focusing specifically on medical texts. Studiesudin the literature dealt specifically with general collections and it was not clear if theyudwere applicable to medical collections. It was also not clear if these studies should playuda role in determining whether a medical library should purchase electronic texts orudwhether reserve collections are still needed for print texts.udMethods – Four usage studies were conducted using data from the circulation systemudand the electronic vendor systems. These were 1) trends of print usage; 2) trends ofudelectronic usage; 3) a comparison of electronic usage with print usage of the same titleudin the reserve collection; 4) a comparison of electronic usage with print usage of theudsame title in the general collection.udResults – In comparison to print, substantial usage is being made of electronic books.udPrint is maintaining a level pattern of usage while electronic usage is increasingudsteadily. There was a noticeable difference in the usage levels of the electronic texts asudregards to the package in which they are contained. Usage of print texts both onudreserve and in the general collection has decreased over time, however the acquisitionudof the electronic version of a medical title had little impact on the usage of theudequivalent print version.udConclusion – There is a demand for medical texts in medical libraries. Electronic versions can replace print versions of texts in reserve. Further investigation is needed of current patterns of print collection usage, with particular emphasis on trends in reserve collection usage.
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