A Survey of E-Book Interlibrary Loan Policy in U.S. Academic Libraries. Issue 2 (19th August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhu, Xiaohua; Shen, Lan
• Editors: Hollerich, Mary; Hollerich, Mary
• Is Part Of: Interlending and document supply. Volume 42:Issue 2/3(2014)
• Publication Date: 2014-08-19
• Subjects: Interlibrary loans -- Periodicals; Library cooperation -- Periodicals; Document delivery -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 025.62
• DOI: 10.1108/ILDS-05-2014-0025
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-1615

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: Academic libraries in the U.S. have witnessed an impressive growth in acquiring e-journals and e-books. Although interlibrary loan (ILL) of e-journal articles has become a standard practice, ILL of copyrighted e-books does not appear to be equally common. E-book ILL is often considered difficult or nearly impossible because restrictions for ILL are embedded in license agreements (or terms of use) and reinforced by technological measures. This paper aims to reveal the perceived barriers to e-book ILL and their reflections on academic libraries' ILL/lending policies. Design/methodology/approach: The study opted for a telephone survey method, in which researchers collected data on ILL/lending policies about e-journals and e-books in 200 randomly selected academic libraries in the U.S. Findings: The findings show the state of e-books in U.S. academic libraries and demonstrate the slow adoption of e-book ILL compared to e-journal ILL. Licensing restrictions and lack of technical means are the major obstacles perceived by librarians, but there may also be a barrier of perception. Research limitations/implications: The survey data do not necessarily provide explanations. In-depth interviews may be needed to explain the barriers and perceptions. Practical implications: This paper reveals important perceptions and facts about e-book ILL in academic libraries and analyzes the obstacles and restrictions on e-book. Originality/value: This paper provides empirical data on the status of e-book ILL.