Instead of focusing solely on what is technically possible in library electronic resources management include usability and patron viewpoints in your workflow.

1. Licensed CC BY SA by Rachel Becker rachel.becker@wisc.edu
Rachel Becker
Electronic Resources Management Librarian
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Rachel.becker@wisc.edu
Twitter: @rbecks29
Say What?:
patron centered electronic resource management
Managing electronic resources is technically complex and requires
a knowledge and understanding of a vast array of interfaces. The
end result of management is always the same; users need to
access the information as easily and seamlessly as possible.
Increasing usability improves usage statistics and stretches
collection development budgets. However, without a solid
understanding of patron usability creating such an experience can
be difficult. Gaining this understanding does not have to be difficult
and can be easily achieved.
Incorporating public service into position descriptions for
electronic resources librarians is an easy way to see how
resources are being used by patrons. Advantages include:
• See how patrons discover content
• What content is being used
• Resources where patrons frequently encounter access
problems
• Ability to quickly monitor when resources crash
Regular discussions with public services staff is another
fantastic way to get to know how patrons are using the
library’s services if position incorporation is not an option.
Faculty are another important user group on campus and have
the potential to shape how students use the library.
Establishing a good relationship between the electronic
resources librarian and either faculty or library liaisons can
improve service by:
• Understanding how instructors use online resources with
courses
• Educating instructors on legal and effective sharing of
resources
• Discovering where problems exist in current resources
• Discussing possible new resources or Open Access
options
• Exploring new licensing models for resources which
currently limit users
Evaluating problems reported by patrons can highlight areas for
improving access points or streamlining current routes. Starting
points include:
• Is the resource actually available but the patron was unable to
successfully navigate to it?
• Did they attempt to access it via an out of date link?
• Are patrons bookmarking links to resources because they are
difficult to navigate to?
• What are the most frequently reported problems? What is
causing them?
Tech Stop at HCLS Central Branch by Howard County Library System
licensed CC BY NC ND
Introduction
Public Service
Working with Instructors
Problem Reports