Access and document supply: a comparative study of grey literature

The communication addresses different aspects of accessibility and dissemination of grey literature in the digital age when the de-materialization of documents leads to a new paradigm that overcomes the intrinsic characteristics of print material. Based on the added value of grey literature for academic institutions, the communication attempts an analysis of the ongoing transformations; especially concerning the way research and development in the grey area have become part of the open access movement. In this context, we analyse some supply services for the dissemination of grey literature: their typology, their strategic approach, and the special conditions and characteristics of their service. The analysis starts with a review and an update of professional information on the main European supplier of grey literature. For some of them, the review is completed by an empirical survey. We conclude with some remarks on significant developments in grey supply. Who are dynamical actors in this playground, where are original and interesting services and approaches? Where the dissemination of grey literature is moving, and what is the logic of this movement? Includes: Conference preprint, Powerpoint presentation, Abstract and Biographical notes, Pratt student commentary XA International