Integrating serials into the Triangle Research Libraries Network Document Delivery System

No library can acquire everything its patrons will need, so providing access to other collections has become essential. This article describes the Triangle Research Libraries Network Document Delivery System (TRLN DDS), which automates the process of placing requests, and as much of the request management and supply process as possible. The system uses expert system software to locate potential suppliers of requested items. Requests for serials pose significant challenges for an expert system, due to incomplete citations, incomplete holdings information in online catalogs, copyright, availability of electronic serials, alternatives for electronic delivery, and several other factors.