DeVry University Library Acquisition Policy: eBook Acquistion Policy

eBook Collection Policy

Access: 

• Perpetual access (ownership) is preferred.
• The library will acquire electronic resources that will be made available on its website using the standard access methods supported by DVU IT.
• Resources should be accessible via the use of standard web browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, MS Internet Explorer, Opera, and Safari) and with capabilities for standard document formats such as HTML, PDF and/or standard eBook file types.

Content:

• The degree to which a particular resource supports specific areas of the educational mission or other objectives of DVU will be primarily considered.
• If a potential resource is not congruent with these criteria, the Librarians will use their professional judgment to determine if the resource possesses other unique qualities that warrant inclusion in the Library’s electronic collections.
• Does the resource complement or enhance the depth or breadth of existing collections or is it redundant with other resources?
• What is the current and anticipated level of need/demand for the resource?
• Are there unique and desirable features present?
• Faculty eBook publications generally are considered favorably as acquisitions and will be acquired based on price and availability. 

Cost:

• Cost is a significant variable when deciding to acquire or continue a resource, particularly as subscriptions are a continuing cost.  The cost and benefit of acquiring a resource are an integral part of the process.  The price of a no-to-low-cost resource is not a sufficient reason to acquire it. Conversely, a highly-priced resource should not be rejected out of hand if it provides exceptionally distinctive benefits such as ensuring accreditation.
• The Library is willing to work with other departments to acquire resources using that department’s funds (non-library funds).
• eBook acquisitions will be reviewed if the cost is considered prohibitive by the library administration.
• All schools at DeVry University and Keller Graduate School of Management have equal opportunity to submit acquisition requests; library administration reserves the right to balance funding based on considerations of program need, curriculum developments, to fill gaps in existing collections or other appropriate criteria.

Language:

• The main language of the collection is English.
• Criteria considered for the acquisition of foreign language materials are their usefulness to the University curriculum and cost.

Review:

• eBook title recommendations may be made by filling out our acquisitions form or submitting your title list to the librarians.
• The library administration reserves the right to deny acquisition recommendations.
• All schools at DeVry University and Keller Graduate School of Management have equal opportunity to submit acquisition requests; library administration reserves the right to balance funding based on considerations of program need, curriculum developments, to fill gaps in existing collections or other appropriate criteria.

Updated 8/24/2022

Library Team