Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Coordinating Information Resources (With Reference On My Mind), Madelynn Dickerson

Library Staff Publications and Research

This poster presentation explores the ways reference and technical services staff can work together to build strong, user-centered collections and best serve student and faculty patrons. It highlights the professional path of the author during a transition from public services to technical services in a newly created position: information resources coordinator.

The challenge is twofold: 1) how to apply reference services expertise to a new scope of responsibility that includes collection analysis and management of print and electronic resources, and 2) how to build collaborative and meaningful relationships with reference and teaching librarians in order to best evaluate existing and …

Interpret The Numbers: Putting E-Book Usage Statistics In Context, Maria Savova, Madelynn Dickerson

Library Staff Publications and Research

E-books have been an integral part of library collections for a long time now, but they are still surrounded by controversy. How much our patrons really use them? That seemingly simple question has a very complicated answer that could depend on a number of factors. The e-books’ usage reports mean very little on their own and leave many unanswered questions. In order to contextualize the usage statistics, the Claremont Colleges Library conducted an analysis of enhanced usage reports in comparison with the total offerings of e-book content available to our users from all major providers, and through all access models. …

Dda In Context: Defining A Comprehensive Ebook Acquisition Strategy In An Access-Driven World, Jason S. Price, Maria Savova

Library Staff Publications and Research

Internet-based technology has birthed a variety of ebook acquisition modes that differ significantly in number of accessible titles per acquisition dollar. We review these acquisition modes and argue that it is crucial for libraries to define a well-reasoned, comprehensive acquisition strategy that represents their optimal mix of all six modes. Each library’s strategy should reflect its institutional priorities relative to five key factors (choice of content and quality, discount, ease of use, permanence, and cost predictability) and integrate three complementary tactics (relating to subscription, demand-driven acquisition, and ebook approval plans) rather than rejecting one or more acquisition modes on principle. …