Electronic Library, The

Purpose – The paper seeks to emphasize the necessity of evaluating the library resources in terms of their quality, cost benefit and usefulness.

Design/methodology/approach – In the context of subscribing to the latest e-journal databases in university libraries, different types of usage studies are discussed, including the recent application of usage log data or vendor reports. The genesis, standardization of usage reports and the significance of COUNTER statistics in establishing the usefulness of the e-journals are described. The use of various electronic databases by the University of Hyderabad academic community is referred to according to these statistics/reports, mentioning the way in which it is helpful to university library in assessing their actual usage and usefulness.

Findings – The paper highlights the application of usage reports by the university library in decision making during renewals/subscriptions, i.e. the selection of databases, upgrading the versions, increasing licences, cancellation of subscriptions, etc.

Practical implications – All in all, it is established that the usage reports are to be taken as a support to library decision-making activity, since it reflects the true value of e-journals/databases.

Originality/value – This study provides necessary direction to library management regarding the utilization of log data for assessing the true value of e-journals/databases. Thus the usage statistics can be studied and this analysis will invariably support the complex decision-making activity of serials management in university libraries.