Circulation versus photocopy: Quid pro Quo?

Information thought necessary for assessing the potential impact of a limited journal circulation policy at the University of California, San Francisco, included the effects on seating, on in-house photocopying, and on circulation. An initial survey during a "typical circulation" week showed journal circulation to be 71% of the total, with journals issued during the past five years comprising 45% of the total. A survey of user photocopying practice suggested that circulation limited to journals more than five years old might result in a 90% increase in photocopying, and results of the circulation survey were used to predict a 45% decrease in circulation. Results of implementing a limited circulation policy were a 41% decrease in circulation and a 136% increase in photocopy. Differences between prediction and results may be accounted for by the effect of duplicate copy subscriptions and by provision of convenient photocopy facilities.