UNITED-KINGDOM APPROVAL PLANS AND UNITED-STATES ACADEMIC-LIBRARIES - ARE THEY NECESSARY AND COST-EFFECTIVE

This study reports the results of a cost comparison and availability study between United Kingdom imprints and subsequent United States editions. The research found significant differences in price between U.S. and U.K. editions. The impact is greatest when the British pound is high (over $1.70) compared to the dollar. The fact that U. S. publishers also offer discounts off list price, and that U.K. publishers do not, adds to savings that can be achieved by purchasing the U.S. edition. The purpose was to provide more information then was previously available on the efficiency of purchasing U.K. origin titles in the United Kingdom. The main factors remain cost, accessibility, and timeliness.