To what extent has the library adopted an “e-priority” policy, acquiring only the electronic version of a volume where one exists? Should we?
What are we already doing related to the
question?
If we wanted to consider starting this initiative or expanding what we are already doing, what do
we want to learn about it from our future speakers? What questions do we
want to ask during our upcoming speaker series?
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ReplyDeleteObviously space is an issue at Edmon Low, but should that be enough of a driver to go all-electronic as available? Should exceptions be made for certain materials we consider essential? Does the library have "core materials" that we look to as defining elements of the collection? Is there an area or a subject we can hang our hats on as something the OSU Library is known for nationally or even regionally? Should these materials (if there are such...) continue to be purchased in print, or in multiple formats?
ReplyDeleteOther questions:
how do you sell this idea to a reluctant faculty?
what infrastructure/technology is needed to seamlessly integrate these titles into the collection?
Where is the digital file (e-book) stored (locally or with a distributor)... and what type of access are we purchasing (simultaneous or single circulations / a specific number of circulations)?
How do these answers show improvement over our current model?
While the faculty are totally on board with digital journals I think a lot of them are really uncertain about e-books. I suspect the students will be far more prepared to accept (even embrace) e-books. The e-book models are still problematic too. Journals have kind of worked out most of the kinks but publishers are trying to treat e-books like they did print books. That's a problem. So I guess I have no idea how to answer these questions. I suppose we go slowly and find out what LibQual says. Then we negotiate the best possible deals with the publishers.
ReplyDeleteGreat questions! Thanks for the thoughtful replies.
ReplyDelete