Donna L. Burton

Redesign of the New York state depository system

Abstract As the administrative agency for the State Document Program, the New York State Library oversees the distribution of state publications to libraries statewide. Until recently financial constraints, agency ignorance of or noncompliance with the law requiring deposit of publications, and a system with little flexibility for expansion hampered the library in carrying out this function. As a result, a task force was appointed to survey and evaluate the existing distribution program. A standing advisory committee implemented the task forces recommendations, which included major redesign of the depository structure and procedures. Now entering its third year, the program is proving itself as a viable and model system and is being monitored closely and improved on a continuing basis by the standing NYLA/GODORT Committee on New York State Documents in cooperation with the New York State Library.