Mechanisation of Serials Records: A Literature Review

Abstract

Libraries undertake mechanisation of serials records both as an end in itself to overcome the stresses of inadequate manual systems, and as a pilot stage towards an integrated overall system of automated processes. American Libraries have been experimenting in this field for some years now in both small and large serials holdings. The total systems approach for dealing with serials is recommended and a wide range of possible outputs of a machine system is described. Automation of accessioning individual parts has also been developed but is not regarded as worthwhile for beginners to attempt. Some writers prefer to concentrate on the catalogue outputs and to leave the administrative areas, subscriptions and binding control, to manual systems. Benefits are widely assumed as the result of an automated system but there is as yet little generalisation of relative costs of these systems within individual libraries and in comparison between libraries. Access to computers that have large memories and that operate at high speeds is considered necessary. The system brought in at San Diego between 1961 and 1964 and that is now being thoroughly revised on account of expansion of holdings and with a view to the use of the LC MARC format is the best developed system under review.

Citation

MAassil, S.W. (1970), "Mechanisation of Serials Records: A Literature Review", Program: electronic library and information systems, Vol. 4 No. 4, pp. 156-168. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb046627