E-lending

Aim of the project

The aim of this project is to establish a basis for deciding how e-lending can be introduced at the ETH-Bibliothek.

Description of the project

Virtual access to e-books and other e-resources regardless of time and location is not yet possible for the customer group "non-members of ETH Zurich" (external library customers). Since information in the field of science, technology and medicine (STM) is becoming increasingly available in electronic form, the introduction of a form of virtual loan system for e-books (e-lending) is essential for library customers.

The project will evaluate the options that are available to academic libraries in relation to e-lending. Two alternative approaches will be considered: outsourcing to an e-book aggregator or developing an in-house solution.

Synergies and context

This project constitutes a further step towards the creation of a digital library.

Timeframe, sequence

June to November 2010: Pre-evaluation, discussions with suppliers, tests, cost estimate
End of 2010: First recommendation
2011: Extended clarifications
End of 2012: Decision


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