Access to E-Book content through Netlibrary

Abstract

NetLibrary, a division of OCLC Online Computer Library Center Inc is the leading provider of electronic books to the institutional library market. The purchase of netLibrary by OCLC in January 2002 fits well with OCLC’s approach to information and knowledge management which is essentially that of making information available to library users whenever and wherever they need it in as rapid and cost-effective way as possible. Netlibrary products also provide practical solutions to help librarians face the challenges of the information age such as the requirements to access materials twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week, o����en remotely, and the very real need to support distance and distributed learning programmes. This presentation will deal with the following issues: o Background to netLibrary o OCLC and netLibrary o Key benefits for users and librarians o The netLibrary collection o Access, authentication & usage pa����erns o Recent enhancements & future developments o Tools for the librarian o Pricing model o Selecting titles and ordering In Europe, netLibrary products are marketed and sold by OCLC PICA.