Interlibrary loan is the new reference: reducing barriers, providing access and refining services

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to describe new technologies affecting discovery and delivery and to examine how the explosion of full text sources is pushing interlibrary loan staff toward new roles.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper's approach takes the form of a descriptive analysis.

Findings

Interlibrary loan staff are becoming expert searchers, providing reference service and refining best practices to better serve our patrons. Resources are described to enhance services.

Originality/value

The paper provides a window on the changing roles of interlibrary loan staff.

Citation

Buchanan, S. (2009), "Interlibrary loan is the new reference: reducing barriers, providing access and refining services", Interlending & Document Supply, Vol. 37 No. 4, pp. 168-170. https://doi.org/10.1108/02641610911006247