Understanding Consortia Better: What Vendors Can Learn
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Date
2003-02
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
INFLIBNET Centre
Abstract
In the authors view Consortia probably resemble vendors more than they resemble
libraries. A consortium aims to assist member libraries In the authors view libraries in
carrying out their mission of improving the end user's access to information resources.
No two consortia are alike: they have different structures, histories, and specific goals.
Working with consortia often can reduce a vendor's overhead. It provides member
libraries with the information (including pricing) they need to make subscription
decisions. They say that If a library consortium puts its Good Housekeeping seal of
approval on a new e-resource and discusses it on consortial list servs and at consortial
meetings, this helps create an interest and buzz about the e-resource among the member
libraries." Handling negotiations and maintaining licenses for products "saves
tremendous staff time in the libraries. Vendors should try to unders tand the unique
qualities of the consortia with which they work. This article offers guidance directed
mostly at vendors.
Description
This is only an Abstract
Keywords
Consortia, e-resources