FA11Q5

Fall 2011 Question 5
5. In a traditional print world, libraries purchased books and other materials. Once purchased, the materials were owned by the library until a decision was made to sell or discard the materials. In an electronic world, many books, journals and other materials are licensed rather than purchased. Librarians are thus faced with a variety of management issues, including dealing with licensing issues, developing infrastructure, and providing different kinds of customer services.

a. Discuss the major issues surrounding the “ownership” versus “access” debate. Discuss THREE pros and THREE cons of both models. b. Discuss the implications (of your answers to question 5a) for ONE information agency of your choice.

Response