Research Information System
TURKISH LIBRARIANSHIP, vol.37, no.4, pp.227-242, 2023 (ESCI)
Purpose: The purpose of the study is to identify the difficulties university libraries experience in the selection and evaluation of electronic resources. Method: The research was carried out on staff responsible for electronic resources in state university libraries in Turkey. The research is limited to state universities due to budget and regulatory obligations. The sample was determined from different FTE groups in line with similar budget and disciplinary structures. The data was obtained by interpreting semi -structured interview results and converting qualitative data into quantitative data. Interviews were conducted with a total of 40 people, a varying number of library managers, unit managers and electronic resource managers, representing the 24 libraries included in the sample. Converted data obtained from the interviews into quantitative data, the percentage distribution, frequency and average were calculated. Findings: According to the findings of the study, it was determined that the libraries experienced difficulties regarding resource selection criteria, collection control, trial access, access problems, usage statistics, provider and publisher, personnel, budget and discipline needs. Libraries using different practices to overcome difficulties in line with their structures. Implications: As a result of the research, it was seen that university libraries experienced similar difficulties in electronic resources. It has been observed that libraries apply different solutions in line with the organizational structure, organizational culture and experience of the staff. There is no guide to help overcome the difficulties experienced in the management of electronic resources. As well as librarians who are new to the profession, experienced librarians also need to exchange information with other colleagues. In this regard, the priority that needs to be done to overcome the difficulties is to determine the difficulties experienced by libraries. As a result of the study, it was determined that libraries use similar methods with different degrees of importance in the selection and evaluation of electronic resources and experience similar difficulties. Originality: There are a limited number of studies in the literature that reveal the current practices of university libraries in Turkey to overcome the difficulties they has. This research revealed that state university libraries in Turkey use similar methods in the selection and evaluation of electronic resources and experience similar difficulties in electronic resource management.