Using depository exchange lists as collection development tools

Abstract

PurposeThis paper seeks to highlight the benefits of using depository exchange lists as collection development tools.Design/methodology/approachThe authors provide a general overview of depository collection development and analyze exchange list activity at the national and local level.FindingsAlthough exchange lists are widely available electronically, only a small portion of depository libraries actually use them as found in the analysis of exchange list activity at the national level. Many unique and out of print documents are regularly being offered on the lists.Originality/valueThis paper provides information on an area of government documents and collection development librarianship that is not widely covered in the literature. It highlights the use of exchange lists as a way to increase collections at a relatively low cost.