Abstract

E‐resource acquisitions began as a complex process and libraries struggled to manage it. When e‐resources first arrived, librarians spent considerable time determining how to acquire these resources. A movement ensued to generate the best methods for selecting, ordering, negotiating licenses, choosing content, and paying. Libraries were prompted to develop new workflows. Time has passed and acquisitions functions have mostly been standardized. However, with the acquisition of e‐resources comes the challenges of discovery, access, and user needs. Now that many libraries feel more comfortable in acquiring e‐resources with the help of technology, cloud‐based services, and task coordination, they are moving beyond acquisitions and focusing on discovery and access. It takes much time and great effort to efficiently manage e‐resources so that there is seamless discovery and access.

The transition from print to electronic is a continuous process for most libraries as they allocate funds for electronic serials and books. Workflows are being developed that incorporate, not only new technology, but also, new staff skills and knowledge. This paper will introduce new workflows and technologies that VCU libraries have adopted to provide discovery and access. A discussion of how workflows have changed since the implementation of Alma and Primo and the influx of e‐resources is included. Ideas for identifying successful methods for moving e‐resources beyond acquisitions will be shared. Readers will be exposed to a number of ideas for improving the management of e‐resources and opportunities that are available for adding value to their library.

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Successful E‐Resource Acquisitions: Looking Beyond Selecting, Ordering, Paying, and Receiving to Discovery and Access

E‐resource acquisitions began as a complex process and libraries struggled to manage it. When e‐resources first arrived, librarians spent considerable time determining how to acquire these resources. A movement ensued to generate the best methods for selecting, ordering, negotiating licenses, choosing content, and paying. Libraries were prompted to develop new workflows. Time has passed and acquisitions functions have mostly been standardized. However, with the acquisition of e‐resources comes the challenges of discovery, access, and user needs. Now that many libraries feel more comfortable in acquiring e‐resources with the help of technology, cloud‐based services, and task coordination, they are moving beyond acquisitions and focusing on discovery and access. It takes much time and great effort to efficiently manage e‐resources so that there is seamless discovery and access.

The transition from print to electronic is a continuous process for most libraries as they allocate funds for electronic serials and books. Workflows are being developed that incorporate, not only new technology, but also, new staff skills and knowledge. This paper will introduce new workflows and technologies that VCU libraries have adopted to provide discovery and access. A discussion of how workflows have changed since the implementation of Alma and Primo and the influx of e‐resources is included. Ideas for identifying successful methods for moving e‐resources beyond acquisitions will be shared. Readers will be exposed to a number of ideas for improving the management of e‐resources and opportunities that are available for adding value to their library.