Evaluation was planned as an integral part of the pilot project; journals and libraries were informed that this was a condition of participation. Its aim was to find out answers to the following questions:
· are the journals capable of sustaining publication?· are the journals capable of sustaining distribution?
· is distribution by post within Africa reliable as a means of delivery?
· have the journals managed to use the extra subscription income in ways that will improve their sustainability?
· have the journals been used in teaching and research?
Journals and libraries were asked to co-operate in collecting data and submitting this to IAI (Appendix 3):
· journals were asked to complete and submit a despatch form· journals were provided with ideas on how to use the subscription income and asked to make a report on what they did
· libraries were asked to complete and submit a receipt form
· libraries were asked to publicize and record the use made of the journals
The evaluation methodology was explained to both the journals and the libraries in a separate letter that included copies of the data collecting instruments. Reminders (and acknowledgements of data received) were included in all letters that concerned other aspects of AJDP. A final letter was sent in early June, giving the end of June as the last date for receipt of evaluation forms and reports.
