Scarcity

For access and preservation, the scarcity process ensures a copy of every print journal offered is held at the British Library, and another within the UKRR community.

In order to ensure that no scarce issue is disposed of, the UKRR team utilise the services of Jisc Library Hub. This provides a single point of access to a wide range of library catalogues showing holdings recorded at issue level. This functionality allows for accurate checking of holdings within other institutions, with the second-copy holders being recorded on the LARCH database.

Contact us

t: +44 (0)1937 546774
e: ukrr@bl.uk

Minicom (for the use of the hearing impaired): +44 (0)1937 546434

Twitter @UKRRcollection

What is UKRR?

UKRR saves space in libraries by de-duplicating print journals.

LARCH

Linked Automated Register of Collaborative Holdings. The system was introduced in UKRR Phase 2 and was designed based on the requirements agreed between the UKRR, the British Library and UKRR member libraries.

Scope

We accept academic print journals, in a robust and stable condition, suitable for continued use.

How is UKRR managed?

UKRR is a service of the British Library, where the principal copy of the journal is retained and access is provided for researchers through its document supply service and reading rooms.

Resources

These resources will help you use UKRR

Case studies

…Using UKRR we have freed up valuable space so that we can upgrade the quality of our study areas…

Leeds University Library Joined the UKRR scheme in 2008 and the service is a key part of the stock management process. Jane Saunders explains how this is beneficial to the university.

…Being a member of UKRR has allowed us to free up physical space across the Library estate…

The University of St Andrews has been fortunate to be a member of UKRR since its inception and has found the process to be a fantastic collaborative initiative, vital in the rationalisation of the Library’s print journal holdings.

News stories

Artists impression of external of refurbished British Library Boston Spa Campus

RMS collection embargo

8 March 2022

We're enhancing our storage facilities in Boston Spa and some of our collections are being moved to enable this work. As a result, some of the items you requested might not be available while they're being moved.