Could print on‐demand actually be the “new interlibrary loan”?

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the feasibility of using the rapidly developing print on‐demand (POD) services to provide an alternative to interlibrary loan.

Design/methodology/approach

The current state of the print on‐demand market is described and various developments considered including ILL.

Findings

It was found that POD is probably not the “new interlibrary loan” heralded two years ago but books printed on demand and associated services will play a key role in helping librarians address patron needs.

Originality/value

This is the only paper so far to evaluate POD services specifically in relation to interlibrary loan.

Citation

Wilson‐Higgins, S. (2011), "Could print on‐demand actually be the “new interlibrary loan”?", Interlending & Document Supply, Vol. 39 No. 1, pp. 5-8. https://doi.org/10.1108/02641611111112093