E-First beim Bucherwerb an der Universität Tübingen

Results of a one-year test period

Abstract

The Tübingen University Library has tested an e-first strategy for the acquisition of books over a period of one year and evaluated the results. A processing procedure was developed and the service „Finding Your Preference“ from the supplier Dietmar Dreier was used. In total, around one third of the titles ordered were activated as e-books and around two thirds were delivered as print copies. The reasons for the delivery as print copies were as follows and in this order: only available as a print copy, only available as part of an e-book package or minimum order quantity not reached, set price limit of 40 % above the print price exceeded or DRM (digital rights management) conditions unacceptable. With slightly changed parameters, the e-first strategy is being continued for the natural and social sciences. Subjects in the humanities may take part on a voluntary basis. The article describes the processing procedure and presents the results of the one-year test as well as the discussion, which led to the continuation of the e-first strategy.