E-books in academic libraries

Purpose This paper provides an analysis of the current state of the art in e-books, and attempts both to set the scene and provide reasons for their low uptake. Methodology The different approaches to e-books of academic librarians, authors, publishers and readers are considered, using the results of a recent survey commissioned by the Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC). Findings and Value The findings of this study make it clear that those who know about e-books see them as potentially useful tools. However, a number of users of ICT resources are still unaware of e-books even when their academic libraries’ e-book holdings is high. The lack of promotion from within the university, particularly from the academics, and to a certain extent from the librarians, is indeed a major reason for this knowledge gap. Practical implications Publishers, e-book providers and aggregators, academics and intermediaries (i.e., librarians and information specialists) should concentrate on raising awareness of what is available and what are the advantages related to e-books for specific categories of users. At the same time e-book suppliers should make e-books easier to find and purchase. Crucially, both the research and commercial development communities have to address these major issues: • Definition of common bench marks for research to progress; • User-centred design as a paradigm; • Better and stronger links with all stakeholders. This paper will offer a stepping stone for all parties interested in moving forwards to achieve this common goal.