SHEDL - the Scottish Higher Education Digital Library: an update

The Scottish Higher Education Digital Library, SHEDL, has developed in recent years, arising within the context of higher education provision in Scotland. The compact size of Scotland, including a limited number of higher education institutions (HEIs), the existence of research pools, and a separate funding regime – plus the negotiating prowess of JISC Collections – has enabled successful negotiation with a number of publishers on the provision of all their journal content to all Scottish HEIs. The origins, development, operation and benefits of SHEDL are described. Some early evaluation, including evidence of increased usage, is outlined. Finally, future developments, including possible barriers to progress, are discussed