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ELECTRONIC DATA (eBooks, eJournals, Databases, CD Roms)  

Electronic data presents several concerns.  It is often much more expensive than its print counterpart.  When purchasing electronic data on a subscription basis, if the subscription is cancelled, often one loses all rights to access the data, unlike serials for which we have paid previously – the back issues remain in the library.  The speed with which search results are returned are based on whether the data is housed on the local machine, the kind of search engine being used, and what traffic is like on the internet.  Machines and software must be constantly upgraded to access newer versions of the software efficiently.  Because of their substantial costs, purchase of electronic databases is often fiscally difficult.  The Libraries will cooperatively purchase databases when possible.  In considering the merits of various databases, we will consider these key attributes: 

·         Potential use

·         Remote access for off-campus users

·         Amount of full text

·         Cost and whether consortia purchase is a possibility

·         Ease of access

·         Quality of interface/ease of use

·         Printing/emailing/saving capabilities

·         Embargoed titles and length of embargo time

·         Availability of backfiles

·         Ability to track use

·         Availability of user documentation/training

·         Licensing considerations

·         Graphics capabilities