2016 Charleston Library Conference

Libraries are struggling to maintain subscriptions to research materials, and must explore a variety of access options. There are few attractive options for libraries who want to provide access to research materials to users in a way that is cost effective and simple for users. Libraries are caught between subscriptions to large packages of content or article-level purchasing that is either not instant or must allow unmediated access. In the past, Resource Sharing and Interlibrary Loan has helped users gain access to research material far beyond what their libraries could afford as a single institution. Going forward, resource sharing can offer a variety of options for libraries to provide users access to research material in a way that is convenient yet cost effective. Using IDS Logic, a resource sharing software platform designed by SUNY Libraries that integrates with vendor web services, more options for access to research materials are available. IDS Logic automates verification of copyright limitations, determines the best price for purchase from article vendors, and creates user profiles and system configuration that will allow more refined and automated purchasing or borrowing of research articles and other content. IDS Logic connects with web services from OCLC, Reprints Desk, Copyright Clearance Center, Pubmed, and others to automate delivery decisions, and provide virtually instant access to needed articles. This creates another method for libraries to meet the research needs of its users and helps to ensure that the research is delivered in the most seamless and cost effective manner.