14.11 Sources Of Replacement Documents

Although LSCM does not maintain retrospective stock of publications disseminated through the FDLP, there are several immediate sources for obtaining replacement copies of Government publications. These include:

• U.S. Government Printing Office
  You can contact LSCM using the claims process to replace recent shipping list boxes that were destroyed. Bear in mind that LSCM may not be able to provide free replacement copies of Government property destroyed in a disaster; it is the responsibility of your depository to obtain replacements. The GPO Bookstore sells copies of many recent and popular publications.
• Other Depository Libraries
  You should compile a list of publications that need to be replaced. This list may be distributed to the regional and to other depository libraries through LSCM’s Needs & Offers List. The regional depository library may cull duplicates from its collection and may request that other selective depository libraries in the region also cull duplicates for the affected library. Libraries providing replacement publications should expect reimbursement for shipping costs from the requesting library. When possible, the regional depository should provide assistance to the selective, such as providing storage space for publications being collected or requesting material from other libraries.
  
  Publications may be replaced in formats other than those of the damaged publications. For example, tangible material may be replaced with microforms or electronic versions. Photocopies or other types of reproductions may be requested from the regional or from other depositories, which should supply them at cost to the requesting library.
• Library of Congress
  The Library of Congress maintains microfiche masters for all microfiche distributed through the FDLP. Some depositories also offer microfiche duplication services and would be able to provide duplicate microfiche to other depositories for a fee. When replacing microfiche publications, the type of microfiche NEEDS to be specified. LSCM has distributed publications in both silver halide and diazo formats. Silver halide is considered the archival format. However, silver halide microfiche should not be stored in the same cabinets as diazo or vesicular microfiche. Also, according to some experts, even though the silver halide fiche is archival, it is more easily damaged by heat and smoke.
• Federal Agencies
  Federal agencies may provide free copies of recently published publications. Federal agencies also have publications catalogs available on their Web sites. The National Technical Information Service sells many Government publications, particularly technical reports.
• Commercial Vendors
  There are many commercial vendors that sell Government publications and could be used for replacing damaged items.