“Fast track” transition to an electronic journal collection: a case study

Abstract

Describes the background and development of the migration to an electronic journal collection by the W.W. Hagerty Library of Drexel University, Philadelphia. Starting in 1998, this transition was a key component of the library’s strategic plan, and with a few exceptions, journals are purchased in electronic‐only format whenever possible. Drexel’s collection now consists of only 800 print subscriptions and 5,500 electronic journals. The transition has had a considerable impact on library staffing and workflow. Offsetting a decrease in the activity levels relating to the print format is a large increase in workload for serials’ acquisitions and management functions. A newly created position of electronic resources librarian acts as a focal point for the integrated development of all electronic resources.