Librarians are raised on selecting books,but database
selection is another kettle of fish entirely.
Professional journals contain reviews of new
and updated online research resources and comparisons to similar products. Some databases are necessary because they
have replaced commonly used print resources.
Like books, new or recommended databases are brought to our attention by
patrons, visits to other libraries, professional development webinars and
advertisements.
Our database subscriptions, other than those
provided through the New Jersey State Library, are reviewed annually before it is time
to renew.
We consider usage, upgrades,
competition, overlap with other resources and price.
When we purchase a new database we try our
best to promote it through in-house demonstrations, word-of-mouth to patrons, website
advertising and an article to the local on-line paper.
Classes are held periodically to introduce
the public to our electronic resources.
We normally give a database two years to prove its worth. Depending on
the outcome of the review, some databases are eliminated completely or,
depending on the content, a similar resource may be considered.
We request a staff demo or trial when a new database is being
considered. Staff will then spend time
navigating around, clicking on buttons, uploading or downloading, and following
links. They will consider if the product
fills an informational or instructional need and if it provides what is
promised.
First impressions are important – is the user welcomed in or overwhelmed. Ease
of navigation is equally important so that no one will become frustrated and
feel the need to leave a trail of breadcrumbs.
The information housed in a database is only as important as a user’s
ability to access it.
Purchasing a database is more complicated and labor
intensive than simply placing an order and waiting for a box to be
delivered. During the implementation
period we work closely with the vendor in hopes of a smooth roll-out. Questions about SIP, patron authentication
methods, our ILS provider, and firewalls must be answered. Are we paying for a defined number of seats
or unlimited concurrent users? Can the
database only be used in-house or is remote access available? Will the database cooperate with our aging
LINUX system or should we wait for the installation of a Microsoft based
system? What about the logistics of
staff training? All of these questions must
be answered.
A final and very important consideration in subscribing to a
new database is the cost. As our annual
budget continues to decrease, adding a new resource normally involves canceling
an existing subscription. As an example,
I am currently researching a new resource for language instruction which, if
successful, could replace two existing databases and save money. That would be a win-win for the budget –
adding one site to be used by both children and adults. At this point in the 2015 budget year, that
savings will help us plan and possibly increase what we can offer in 2016.
-S. Bakos
To use databases from the Berkeley Heights Public Library from home, have your library card handy and go to these pages on our website to see lists of databases:
Upcoming Databases in September 2015:
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| Language learning database will be available remotely |
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| Streaming TV, movies, music, books and more |
