I would like to suggest that the libraries adopt a "netflix" type service with all books/journals available in the libraries. If we (faculty, staff) could order materials and have them delivered to our offices on campus, that would be fantastic, and I would use the libraries much more. Currently, it is difficult to walk/drive and make the time to go the libraries to get materials (dropping off is more convenient), and so I usually go elsewhere or do without. I know that many other universities have this system set up, and think it would be great to have here as well.
From: a faculty member
Shirley Thomas, Head of Resource Delivery Services replies...
VCU Libraries currently offers a Book/Media Delivery service to all users. Staff will retrieve and arrange delivery of books and other media held in the VCU Libraries collection to the patrons home or office.
* Patrons who are eligible for our enhanced services receive this service for free. For more information and to determine if you qualify for this service go to http://www.library.vcu.edu/ill/enhanced.html.
* Patrons who are not eligible for free book/media delivery service are charged a $5 fee per filled request. To request this service, you must make sure
1. your ILLiad profile indicates ' Mail to Address' in the Loan Delivery Method field and
2. you reply 'Yes' to the first question on the ILLiad request form....' Is this item available in the VCU Libraries collection?'.
VCU Libraries also has a 'free copy pilot' underway. This pilot provides free copies of articles and book chapters of materials from the VCUL collections to faculty, staff, and Health System employees. Normally, there is a $5 fee for this service.
VCU Libraries has surveyed peer institution and discussed ways to offer these services to all users without charging. Unfortunately, due to staffing and cost, we are not able to provide these services for free to all VCU Libraries users. We hope that when the budgetary climate improves, we will be able to expand these services.
We hope that the current 'book/media service' and the 'pilot free copy' service will fulfill most of your needs. Let us know if you have additional questions by contacting us at 804-828-1115 or Libjbcrds@vcu.edu.