Shared e-Resources (ECC and Opt-In) - Collection Development & Acquisitions Overview

Owned by Kirstie Genzel
Last updated: Mar 13, 2024
3 min read

 

Area covered

ERM, Acquisitions, Collection Development

Lead Authors

@Kirstie Genzel @Jessica Hartwigsen @Ying Liu

Background

The purpose of this document is to provide an overarching framework for the CSU and its member libraries as they engage in both individual and consortia collection development decision-making. While each member library tailors its own collection development and access strategies to best meet local institutional needs, the document complements local policies and practices based on the recognition of the value of the CSU shared collections and work.

Electronic Core Collection (ECC)

The Electronic Core Collection (ECC) is a portfolio of core library educational e-resources acquired by Systemwide Digital Library Content (SDLC) with funds from the Office of the Chancellor on behalf of all CSU campuses. Campuses do not contribute any of their own funds to the purchase of ECC e-resources. The e-resources contained in the ECC are selected by Shared Resources & Digital Content (SRDC) committee and approved by Council of Library Directors (COLD) in accordance with the following criteria:

  • Supports of CSU Core Curriculum (defined as those degrees or programs offered by at least 2/3 of the CSU campuses)

  • Sufficient interest among campuses

  • Balance of content and value between disciplines

  • Benefits the greatest number of users

  • Sufficient ECC funds

Opt-in

Opt-in e-resources are also acquired by SDLC on behalf of campuses,. However, the Chancellor's Office does NOT pay for opt-ins using CO funds. Each campus chooses whether to “opt-in” to the available subscriptions and pay using their own funding. This collaborative acquisition of library resources allows the CSU system of libraries to leverage their buying power and minimize their administrative expenses. 

Additional ECC and Opt-in Documentation

Consortia Manager

The CSU is using Consortia Manager to manage various collection development and acquisitions activities for ALL Shared E-Resources (ECC and Opt-In).

License terms for all the Agreements/Contracts managed through SDLC will be available to view and download from Consortia Manager!

CM Training Resources:

  • Link to Consortia Manager Help Section

  • All training materials, including general manuals, additional CSU help articles, links to training videos, etc. will be posted to the Help Section within Consortia Manager.

  • Users must login to Consortia Manager to gain access. (If you need an account, please check with your SRDC Member at your campus).

Selection and Acquisitions

Electronic Core Collection (ECC)

  • The SRDC committee is responsible for the review, evaluation, and recommendation of the content to be included in the ECC. 

  • The recommendation, once approved by COLD, is then negotiated, acquired, and paid for by SDLC on behalf of all 23 campuses.

  • SDLC notifies the Electronic Resources Manager of new ECC e-resource acquisitions or cancellations.

  • The Electronic Resources Manager activates/deactivates the corresponding e-resource collection in the Alma NZ for campuses.

Note: ECC e-resources are regularly reviewed by the SRDC Collection Analytics committee to assist SRDC, SDLC, and COLD in its decision-making. 

Opt-Ins

  • Selection of new Opt-in e-resources for SDLC consideration may be initiated by SRDC Members through the ECC/Opt-In Vendor Liaisons (EVL) committee using their SDLC E-Resource Recommendation for EVL Form. Please consult with your the SRDC Member for your campus if there is a resource you would like to put forward as a new opt-in!

  • SDLC starts the renewal process with vendors at least 3 months before a contract/license expires. This process involves negotiating pricing, content, license terms, etc. with the vendors.

  • Once available, pricing and subscription information is sent out to the campuses via Consortia Manager.

  • Campuses interested in acquiring or renewing the e-resource will confirm their orders with SDLC via Consortia Manager. Campuses are usually given 2-3 weeks to confirm their orders.

  • SDLC notifies the Electronic Resources Manager of new Opt-in e-resource acquisitions or cancellations.

  • The Electronic Resources Manager activates/deactivates the corresponding e-resource collection in the Alma NZ for relevant campuses.

  • The Chancellor’s Office bills (via IFT) the campuses for their portion of the Opt-in e-resource costs.