NASIG 2016

Texas A&M University (TAMU) Libraries implemented an e-preferred approval plan in December 2010. This allowed for better oversight of monograph purchases, control of potential duplication, and ability to streamline monograph acquisitions workflow. Shelf space shortage was also addressed as the number of print monographs received on approval decreased.

To determine the impact of the e-preferred approval on the library’s monograph collections, an evaluation of the usage of e-books is conducted. Study results support evidence-based collection acquisition and management decisions of monographs in print and electronic formats.  The results also inform if e-books effectively support the TAMU curricula and to which extent hybrid print an electronic collections should co-exist to support diverse user information needs.