Barb,
At the University of Kentucky students completing a theses or dissertation are given the option of posting an electronic version (ETD) on the UK ETD website. There are currently 102 ETD's listed on the site. A paper copy is retained in Special Collections along with those who do not choose the ETD option. Here's the link for more information on the program http://www.uky.edu/ETD/.
I might also add that U of K is hosting the 7th International Symposium on Electronic Theses and Dissertations June 3-5, 2004. Here's the link for more information on the conference http://www.uky.edu/ETD/ETD2004/.
Reformatting Librarian
Margaret I. King Library
University of Kentucky
859/257-5713
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-padg@xxxxxxx [mailto:owner-padg@xxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Barbara Sagraves
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2004 9:41 AM
To: padg@xxxxxxx
Subject: [PADG:2262] Re: Theses and Dissertations
--- You wrote:
I am interested to know if any institutions are using, or are thinking
about using, UMI/ProQuest as the sole repository for theses and
dissertations. (That is, abandoning print copies.) Is anyone using
their "Current Research @" database as the sole electronic access to
theses and/or dissertations?
--- end of quote ---
We began the program in July 2003 and have gone from requiring 2 copies (1 archives, 1 department granting degree) to one copy for the college archives. The School of Graduate Studies was willing to go totally paperless but we thought it best that the archives keep one official paper copy on hand. UMI's system for creating microfilm along with storing the digital copy seemed satisfactory but I couldn't imagine telling an alum that the college didn't have a copy of their dissertation on hand for them to show their spouse, child, grandchild...
My question is we now have about 8 digital disserations and are wondering...
Has anyone created a web space for them at their library? We are in the early stages of trying to decide what to do with the electronic copy because we have not been happy with the ease of reaching the electronic version hosted by UMI. We are thinking of making our digital copy available off the library server so a patron can reach it in one click from the catalog record.
Any thoughts?
Thanks
Barb Sagraves
Preservation Services Librarian
Dartmouth College Library
Hanover, NH 03755