Electronic reserves: the changing landscape of instructional support

Area of Science:

• Library and Information Science
• Health Sciences Education
• Digital Library Systems

Background:

• Academic libraries face challenges in managing course reserves.
• Traditional course reserve systems can be inefficient for students and staff.
• The need for accessible digital resources in health sciences education is growing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation and success of an electronic course-reserve system.
• To assess the effectiveness of digital course reserves in a health sciences library.
• To explore the expansion of electronic reserve services.

Main Methods:

• A pilot project was conducted with the University of Maryland's School of Nursing.
• The electronic course-reserve system was planned and implemented.
• User response and system effectiveness were monitored.

Main Results:

• The electronic course-reserve pilot project was highly successful.
• The system facilitated easy retrieval of assigned readings for library users.
• Successful implementation led to plans for expansion.

Conclusions:

• Electronic course-reserve systems can significantly improve access to readings.
• Thorough planning is crucial for the successful implementation of digital library services.
• The pilot demonstrated the potential for broader adoption and remote access.