Smaller Libraries & Ebooks

Tracy, Anna

INFO 266, Fall 2016

Lukes, R., Markgren, S., & Thorpe, A. (2016). E-Book Collection Development: Formalizing a Policy for Smaller Libraries. Serials Librarian, 70(1-4), 106-115.

This article delves into research of whether or not collection development policies are necessary in regards to Ebooks and why.

There is much discussion of policies and the work that goes into policy decisions regarding the difference in Ebook acquisitions and book acquisitions. What a dense read, unless you’re into that sort of thing. I did find the section on patron driven acquisitions interesting, though the conclusion of this article would contradict my statements. It is nice to see collection development that is based upon patrons wants and needs. I so often have run into beautiful and amazing collections that never circulate, because though they are wonderful titles, it is of the interest of the purchaser and not that of the community in which they serve. At the end the article discusses a need for librarian roles to morph and merge and suggests a balance that I think we should all be striving to achieve throughout our careers in librarianship.