The PHILSOM system--one user's experience

Abstract

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio joined the PHILSOM system, a comprehensive serials control network, in 1971. The experiences of the library in using the system are described. The major benefit of the system has been multiple copies of the holdings list which have made the serial records publicly accessible and significantly increased their value. Tallies of these lists' use indicate that more than half of serials-related questions are now answered directly by the users. The effects of PHILSOM on the procedures of the serials department--processing, claiming, bindery, and personnel are described. Costs to the network and the UTHSCSA Library are briefly summarized.