The Concept of Systematic Duplication

The author traces the development in thought regarding the systematic purchase of duplicate copies of books for library patron use, from the first consideration of this in the literature in 1917 to the present day. Both general (theoretical) and applicable theory are considered, follwed by some actual examples of duplication policies, both public and academic. The author concludes by relating duplication policies to the library's effectiveness in terms of providing users with the books they request.