At the Univ. of Iowa we have had a long-standing policy of
removing loose materials (charts, plates, maps, etc.) from both
monographs and serials going to the stacks at our Main Library.
These materials can circulate but have to be requested at the
circulation desk (or in the Map Room).  Some of our departmental
libraries (notably Geology) have always left these materials in
pockets in the volumes but have a lower proportion of undergraduate
clients.

  We are told by circulation staff that these materials are rarely
requested.  As a research library, we are concerned about preserving
these materials.  On the other hand, limited access has led to
limited use.

  We are interested in hearing from other research libraries about
their experience with loss rates if they leave the loose materials
in pockets.  Is the inconvenience of removing the materials justified?

  Does anyone leave software or microforms in pockets?  These
present slightly different problems in needing protection from being
desensitized &/or needing special hardware.

  Answer directly to me at ruth-christ@uiowa.edu or cadrthts@iaumvs.
bitnet.  I will summarize for the list if there is any interest.

                                           Thanks,
                                           Ruth Christ, Head
                                           Serials Cataloging Unit
                                           U. of Iowa Libraries