Collection Development for Librarians in a Hurry: A Survey of the Physics Resources of the Libraries of the Association of American Universities

Abstract

This study is an examination of the databases, websites, journals, and monograph titles most frequently included in the library resource guides of 65 well-regarded research institutions. Through an analysis of library resource guides, this study enumerates the resources most frequently recommended to the physics community for study and research. Open access resources, such as arXiv, SAO/NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS), and INSPIRE, are among the most included titles. Notably, websites of professional organizations and governmental agencies are also frequently named. The study is meant to assist librarians in developing and maintaining collections to recommend to the physics community.