A survey of e-book interlibrary loan policy in US academic libraries

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to reveal the perceived barriers to e-book interlibrary loan (ILL) and their reflections on academic libraries’ ILL/lending policies. Academic libraries in the USA have witnessed an impressive growth in acquiring e-journals and e-books. Although ILL of e-journal articles has become a standard practice, ILL of copyrighted e-books does not appear to be equally common. E-book ILL is often considered difficult or nearly impossible because restrictions for ILL are embedded in license agreements (or terms of use) and reinforced by technological measures. Design/methodology/approach – The study opted for a telephone survey method, in which researchers collected data on ILL/lending policies about e-journals and e-books in 200 randomly selected academic libraries in the USA. Findings – The findings show the state of e-books in US academic libraries and demonstrate the slow adoption of e-book ILL compared to e-journal ILL. Licensing restrictions and lack of technical means are the major obstacles perceived by librarians, but there may also be a barrier of perception. Research limitations/implications – The survey data do not necessarily provide explanations. In-depth interviews may be needed to explain the barriers and perceptions. Practical implications – This paper reveals important perceptions and facts about e-book ILL in academic libraries and analyzes the obstacles and restrictions on e-book. Originality/value – This paper provides empirical data on the status of e-book ILL.