Abstract |
Providing information in digital format to users becomes a major trend for libraries. For most libraries today, licensing electronic resources is a critical issue and challenge. This study reviews different aspects of strategic and practical considerations for licensing issues. It considers the key concerns for university libraries by analyzing the statements of licensing principles and model licenses developed by international library associations.
This study also offers the following suggestions:
1. License agreement negotiation training is required for librarians.
2. Library consortia in Taiwan should try to keep interaction with international library organizations.
3. Libraries in Taiwan should support national consortia by providing opinions and evaluating the license agreement to strengthen the cooperation.
4. Manage all license agreements effectively.
5. Consider the access and licensing of electronic journals when subscribing their printed format.
6. Try to retain the rights for fair use, interlibrary loan and exclude the non-cancellation clause from the contract or agreement.
7. Inform users of the restrictions and their obligations in using these digital resources.
8. Ask the information provider for a Chinese translation of agreement for reference.
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