Evaluation Criteria for Internet Resources in the Public Libraries of USA: A Comparative Study

Abstract

library. Thus, this study attempts to compare various evaluation criteria chosen by the public libraries of USA, their diversified collection as well as their accessibility to the users. For this research, eleven (11) public libraries located in USA were chosen. To get information, websites of concerned libraries were analysed, consulted. For further questions, ‘Ask a librarian’ as well as emailing facilities were used. When it comes to selection of e-resources suitable for the library, most public libraries give importance on factors such as cost, ease of use, but have overlooked important factors such as vendor support, licensing etc. The libraries mostly have e-resources like e books, online language learning and courseware in their collection but have left out online reference tools. The e-resources are on art & culture, science, history but lack on the topics of job, sports etc. Most of the libraries don’t have a separate evaluation guideline for e resources. The public libraries mostly allow any users with library cards to access their e-resources without charging a separate fee. Though e-resources have been a popular topic in the recent years, surprisingly not a lot of research has been conducted about their evaluation procedure. This is one of the very first studies that analysed their evaluation, compared the collection of e-resources in public libraries and their accessibility to the users.

Keywords: E-Resources, Web-based Resources, Collection Development Policy, Accessibility of Resources, Public Library