Assessing e-books: Taking a closer look at e-book statistics

In 2008 the University of Idaho Library conducted an in-depth analysis of our three major electronic book providers. Using spreadsheet and database applications, bibliographic data from our ILS was combined with usage statistics obtained from each platform. This technique produced a master sheet that allowed us to do subject analysis by LC classification, discover e-books that were not cataloged in our OPAC, and identify e-books supplied by more than one provider. The usage statistics show relatively low use across both subject areas and platforms. The discussion includes an analysis of subscription costs and recommendations for the reporting of e-book statistics.