ACCESS TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT DOCUMENTATION

Most local government documents are produced for internal purposes, but better exchange of information is highly desirable. A recent study has investigated the production and control of local government documentation in the UK. The published output of all departments of five different local authorities was monitored over a period of six months. It was found that local authorities are a major source of publications, but that standards of production and inclusion of bibliographic details varied greatly. Policies on document status and deposit of copies were generally lacking, and coverage in the periodical press and in secondary sources was poor. A code of practice on production and deposit of documents, and perhaps the establishment of a national clearinghouse, are needed.