Charging for library and information services in medical libraries: a review of the literature and a survey of current practice

Abstract

A summary of some of the issues concerned with charging for library services (particularly information services and services provided by medical libraries) is given. The results of a survey carried out in July 1992 are presented. The survey asked respondents to indicate which library services they charged for, the level of charges and the extent to which charges to those outside the organization and those within it differed. Twenty-five libraries (response rate of 69%) replied to the survey. Some further areas for research and discussion are indicated.