Joe--
The Library doesn't/can't subscribe to the digital format of every
title from its journal list (hard copy) that vendors make available in
the market.  The library is rather quickly moving to a position where
digital resources are selected under criteria similar to those which
govern the acquisition of print materials.  Even when the marginal cost
of the digital format is modest, the cumulative effect would be great.
In addition, we continue to experience price increases for the print
editions which are much greater than the general inflation rate.

The bottom line decision will probably be "what can we discontinue in
print format to free enough money to pay for the digital copy" or something
to that effect.  Knowing that the science libraries have been through several 
series of journal cancellations, it is unlikely that there are many (maybe
none at all) that will be easy cancellation targets.

Gordon Fretwell
Associate Director for Public Services and Systems
University Library
405 DuBois Library
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA   01003-4710
Phone 413-545-0284
Fax   413-545-6873
Home Phone 413-367-9573