Utrecht University Repository: the evolution of the Igitur archive - a case-study

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to outline the development of the institutional repository of Utrecht University, the Igitur Archive. The Utrecht repository is unique for several reasons: it was started several years before the international repository movement began; the repository is combined with an e-publishing service, Igitur, Utrecht Publishing and Archiving Services; and because the repository is firmly embedded in the structural tasks of the university library. This case-study highlights the advantages and disadvantages of this particular situation. Design/methodology/approach – In order to give an outline of the evolution of the Igitur Archive, the paper uses information from policy papers and annual reports of the Utrecht University Library and Utrecht University, from the business plan of Igitur and from the Proceedings of the Dutch DARE project. The findings are sorted in four sections: the start of e-publishing in Utrecht; a section about Igitur; a section detailing the lessons learned; and finally a glance at the future is given. Findings – The conclusion is that the position of Utrecht as an “early adapter” in the Dutch repository movement has caused some delays, but that the combination of the repository with the additional e-publishing services has proved to be very fruitful. Igitur has developed a strong position and both the e-publishing services and the repository have a sound base for further growth. Originality/value – This paper gives useful information to other university libraries who want to start a repository and an e-publishing service or who are already developing such services.