Analyzing Current Serials in Virginia: An Application of the Ulrich's Serials Analysis System

VIVA (the Virtual Library of Virginia) was one of the first subscribers to R. R. Bowker's Ulrich's Serials Analysis System (USAS). Creating a database that combined a union report of current serial subscriptions within most academic libraries in the state with the data elements present in Ulrich's made possible a comprehensive analysis designed to inform collective decision-making about serials. The results of this analysis, especially as they pertain to possible efforts to preserve subscriptions within the state or to add subscriptions to targeted new titles, are presented. Problems with using the resource and anticipated product enhancements are also discussed.