This guide provides direction and suggestions for the selection, acquisition, and licensing of electronic materials for libraries. The steps involved in the process of purchasing most of the existing electronic formats presently available are clearly delineated. Issues from policy concerns, through access and ownership, to licensing and the role of consortia are all covered. Specialized sets of considerations not previously weighed when selecting purchasing material in more traditional formats are included as well as a sample set of licensing guidelines. The authors also include an extensive bibliography and webliography, both organized by subject, and conclude with an extensive glossary of high-tech terms commonly used in the library world when referring to electronic formats.

Applicable for all types of libraries. Needs assessment can be defined as the process of using one or more techniques to collect and analyze data on library users or potential users. The guide includes the methodology and techniques for carrying out needs assessment projects, ranging from short-term assessments to long-term research or comprehensive collection assessments. Various types of data, techniques, and methodology are described, as are associated pointers and pitfalls.