The uptake of electronic journals by academics in the UK, their attitudes towards them and their potential impact on scholarly communication

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Nelson, Dianne

Affiliations: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, Bolland Library, University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, Coldharbour Lane Bristol BS16 1QY, UK. Tel.: +44 117 9656261, ext. 2284; Fax: +44 117 9763846; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: This paper reports on a survey carried out at the University of the West of England (UWE) into the use of electronic journals (e-journals) by academics and their attitudes towards them. The study is set within the context of the rapid expansion of e-journals and their potential impact on scholarly communication, and compared with previous user surveys reported in the literature. The findings suggest that while there is a high level of interest in, and acceptance of e-journals within the academic community, use of them is limited. Their impact on the role of the library is discussed.

DOI: 10.3233/ISU-2001-213-415

Journal: Information Services & Use, vol. 21, no. 3-4, pp. 205-214, 2001