E-books offer big pluses such as convenience and searchability, and librarians see purchases continuing. But they also complain of negatives, including licensing restrictions and a Tower of eBabel among formats. Those, in essence, are the feelings of 51 librarians, mostly from academic libraries, whom the Charleston Report surveyed for the September/October 2005 issue. An excerpt from the print edition:
Although eBooks have become an important part of the library’s collection for many respondents, most were careful to point out that eBooks are not perfect and that there are still several disadvantages that need to be addressed. These include:
–Licensing issues such as restricting the number of simultaneous users allowed per eBook.
–Lack of standard interface and format for e-book content delivery.
–Inability to print large portions are chapters at a time.
–Lack of attention to archival issues.
The Report goes on:
–Purchase models will change to allow for the opportunity to select customize title collections.
–Technologies will continue to evolve and allow for more multiple incorporation, as well as for more portability.
–Formats and platforms will standardize and improve.
–The market will continue to expand in all areas, especially as the disadvantages are resolved.
Related: Similar on-line version of the Report article and subscription info for the related Charleston Advisor.
