Perspectives on Job Stress in the Serials Information World

Contrary to popular opinion, libraries are not stress-free environments. Working with serials can cause stress in libraries and in the professions that provide and manage subscriptions, content, delivery, archives, and other aspects of these continuing resources. The stresses inherent in the serials information chain are exacerbated in a climate of rapidly expanding content, technology, and end-user expectations compounded by a global economic downturn. Two science librarians, a cataloging coordinator, and a serials agent field representative describe challenges in their professions and offer advice on how to cope with the resulting stress.