Developing user-centered collections at a research library: An Evidence-Based Acquisition (EBA) pilot in STEM

The increasing cost of science and engineering books in both print and electronic format continues to challenge academic libraries' ability to support teaching, learning and research. Libraries are under pressure to meet the growing need of electronic resources with a flat or shrinking budget. To seek a solution to this phenomenon, the Stony Brook University Libraries works with publishers to implement an Evidence-Based Acquisition (EBA) model in engineering and science. Using this EBA model, the Stony Brook University Libraries empowers users to participate in purchase decisions on ebooks at the end of the agreed period with the publisher. Before the final purchase of the science and engineering ebooks, users have full access to over 3000 ebooks in the collection. This study is to understand the use pattern of ebooks acquired through EBA model versus subscriptions by analyzing use reports, percent used, and use intensity. The use comparison of two acquisition models provides insights on the ebook collection strategy and EBA impact. The implementation process on the Alma/Primo VE platform is also shared.