Libraries 2000: Transforming libraries using document delivery, needs assessment, and networked resources

The Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College (LSU) Libraries are transforming traditional research library practices by containing serial expenditures, implementing network developments, and attracting grant support. This paper describes three projects designed to utilize document delivery and electronic access to expand collections, identify faculty journal needs, and share resources among Louisiana libraries. It reports the results of document-delivery pilots and journal needs assessment surveys of LSU science and social sciences faculty and compares findings. Data on the use and cost of subsidized document delivery are included. The article also summarizes the libraries' grant activities, which have been awarded more than $6 million in three years.