2006SummerQ1

Question #1
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 them. In an electronic world, many books, journals and other materials are leased rather than purchased. Lease agreements often contain certain restrictions.

Discuss the major issues surrounding the “ownership” versus “access” debate. What are the advantages and disadvantages of both the purchase/ownership and lease/access models? Discuss the short-term and long-term implications for an information agency of your choice.

**Question #3 (Set A and B)**
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 them. In an electronic world, many books, journals and other materials are leased 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.

Discuss the major issues surrounding the “ownership” versus “access” debate. What are the advantages and disadvantages of both the purchase/ownership and lease/access models? Discuss the short-term and long-term implications for an information agency of your choice.

Responses