From: Michael Zeoli <[log in to unmask]> Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:48:14 -0400 Just a note to offer a slightly different perspective. These large inexpensive subscription ebook aggregations (there are several very similar collections on the market) have served a purpose and provided value to *many* libraries. Usage statistics for these collections at libraries that have been using them for years are extremely strong. The renewal rates are always over 90%. The books are typically academic although with this number of titles, there are some that will fall on the margins or outside that scope. That the bulk are older, typically 2+ years, owes also in large part to publisher restrictions: they cannot afford to provide access to new titles for pennies on the dollar. The public domain content and other 'free from whatever site' is an issue that these content providers have considered and explored with academic libraries. Integrating this content into the collections makes the content immediately available, discoverable, searchable and useable. All that said, we all know that there are no 'one-size fits all' solutions to collection building (something that distresses me a bit about the current PDA frenzy, but that's another topic). These large aggregations are intended to provide a large critical mass of eContent to academic libraries covering a broad range of subjects. They are not at all well suited for specialized research centers, nor were they intended to be. A collection like this is one possible piece in building the larger university eContent collection. I should be built on through eApprovals, Publisher collections, eSeries, Patron-Driven title availability, etc. No one would build a house using just a screwdriver. A full range of tools are needed. Collections like these are one of those tools and are suited to particular needs. EBSCO doesn't need me to defend them, but in fairness, they are working hard to provide new resources and new models. While new efforts are not always born perfect, with help from libraries they will continue to build valuable tools. They are listening - I'd recommend sending them your comments. Michael ************************************** Michael Zeoli VP, Strategic eContent Development & Partner Relations YBP Library Services Contoocook, New Hampshire 03229 http://www.ybp.com [log in to unmask] -----Original Message----- From: Amy Schuler <[log in to unmask]> Date: Fri, 9 Mar 2012 15:07:14 -0500 Agreed. I would also add that many of the science & tech subject publications I saw listed are National Academies Press reports, which may be downloaded for free as PDFs from the NAP website in many cases. Just something to keep in mind when considering the cost of licensing this collection. Amy Schuler Director, Information Services & Library Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies Millbrook, New York -----Original Message----- From: "Flanders, Jo" <[log in to unmask]> Date: Thu, 8 Mar 2012 23:20:18 +0000 Is it just me or does this collection seem a bit underserved for an academic collection? There are many titles included in the collection, but the titles are more indicative of public library material. I did not find many titles I would consider important to have for our university library. The publication dates also appear "dated" for quite a few titles, making the information outdated or no longer relevant. Frankly, I do not consider this to be a very comprehensive collection for the amount of money it will cost. Jo Flanders Assistant Professor E Resource/Serials Librarian Miller Center Library St. Cloud State University St. Cloud, Minnesota [log in to unmask] -----Original Message----- From: Ann Okerson <[log in to unmask]> Date: Wed, 7 Mar 2012 07:35:36 -0500 Info courtesy of Gary Price at INFOdocket, This is a significant e-book aggregation. ***************** http://www.prweb.com/releases/EBSCOeBook/Academic/prweb9255338.htm http://www.ebscohost.com/ebooks "eBook Academic Subscription Collection is offered on an annual subscription basis with unlimited access to the content. Each title is offered with unlimited users allowing more users access to each title in the collection. As with all eBooks available from EBSCO, eBook Academic Subscription Collection will integrate seamlessly with all EBSCOhost content. Users will be able to search the collection on its own or side-by-side with other EBSCOhost databases." [Clip] "Libraries are able to purchase titles to add to their permanent collection. Forthcoming options include the ability to make titles available via Patron-Driven Acquisition (PDA), to be purchased only if/when users need them and to lease titles libraries only need for a short time." _gary Gary D. Price, MLIS Information Industry Analyst Co-Founder and Editor, INFOdocket.com and FullTextReports.com Librarian http://INFOdocket.com http://FullTextReports.com