Trends and developments in financial management of collections in academic and research libraries

A number of financial models for collection development are reviewed in their historical and contemporary context. Digital library collections and hybrid library developments are the key influences on the future shape of financial models. These developments are reviewed and some future scenarios are offered along with the likely shape of future financial models. A theoretical analysis suggests a need to move towards user access funding models and away from the traditional collection grant allocation model. Irrespective of this shift libraries will still face traditional challenges in the financial support of physical collections.