Standing orders: considerations for acquisitions method

Even though a substantial amount of the library materials budget may be all ocated for standing orders, this method of acquisition is frequently not gi ven the same attention as those used for traditional monographs and serials . This article describes some of the differences in standing order material , including their shared characteristics with both monographs and serials. It also reviews factors that make some standing orders a good candidate for an approval plan. The article also enumerates some considerations in vendo r selection decisions, regardless of which acquisitions method is used. The author concludes that it is definitely time to assess how these materials are acquired and which type of vendor is used and to make decisions that ex tend our purchasing power. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserv ed.