Core Journal Lists: Classic Tool, New Relevance

Behavioral & Social Sciences Librarian, 29 (2010): 15 – 31.

DOI: 10.1080/01639260903571096

Abstract
Reviews the historical context of core journal lists, current uses in collection assessment, and existing methodologies for creating lists. Outlines two next generation core list projects developing new methodologies and integrating novel information/data sources to improve precision: a national-level core psychology list and the other a local institutional core list for the interdisciplinary field of urban studies and planning. The paper is based on the authors’ panel presentation at the 2009 ACRL National Conference (Seattle, Washington) titled “Core Journal Lists Re-viewed and Re-imagined.”

Keywords: core lists; metrics; collection assessment; psychology; urban studies and planning; collection development; journals; serials