OPLIN is preparing a mailing to all library directors regarding
databases. It is taking longer than we expected, and we apologize for
the delay. Libraries can expect to receive an Intent-to-Participate
form with an option to add or renew SIRS Knowledge Source, to add EBSCO
Auto Repair, or to add two or three other titles next week. We're
currently finalizing the offerings, and figuring out the cost for each
library.
We have had a number of questions, and I'll try to answer them now.
Will OPLIN enable libraries to renew their SIRS Knowledge Source
subscription?
Yes. When you get our Intent-to-Participate form, check SIRS Knowledge
Source if you wish to participate for one more year.
Will OPLIN enable libraries to renew their subscription to EBSCO Auto
Repair?
You don't need to. Libraries that agreed to participate in January
agreed to 18 months. You will be billed in July for the period covering
July 1, 2004 - June 30, 2005.
We elected not to participate in either of these before. How can we
start?
If you wish to add either SIRS Knowledge Source, EBSCO Auto Repair, or
both, simply select them on your Intent-to-Participate form.
Can I drop SIRS Knowledge Source?
If you do not select it on the Intent-to-Participate form, you will not
have it next year.
Can I drop EBSCO Auto Repair?
No. The agreements in January were for 18 months.
When will I be billed?
After we receive all Intent-to-Participate forms, the State Library of
Ohio will send you a formal agreement that lists the databases you
requested and the price you agreed to. After that, we will bill you.
This will take place during July.
What will it cost?
Each database is different, and so is each library. Your share of the
license for each database is determined by two factors: the number of
patrons you have, and the number of workstations available for the
general public. The specific information will be supplied on the
Intent-to-Participate form you receive next week.
Can I send a check now?
No! Please wait until you get an invoice from the State Library of
Ohio.
Is OPLIN going to continue to provide databases to libraries at OPLIN's
expense?
Certainly. OPLIN is dedicated to making sure high quality information
is available to all Ohio residents. We will also continue to work with
OhioLINK and INFOhio (as Libraries Connect) to pursue centrally funded
joint contracts whenever possible.
These are difficult times, however. In July, OPLIN will no longer be
funded with LLGSF dollars. We are moving back under General Revenue as
we requested. The good news for libraries is that the OPLIN deduction
to the LLGSF will no longer occur. However, we are now subject to all
state across-the-board decreases. One will hit us immediately - our
budget will be reduced by 6% in July. For that reason we cannot renew
eLibrary (formerly Electric Library), but we will offer libraries an
opportunity to continue it at their own expense.
What other titles will be on the form?
The final listing is still being finalized. In March, a focus group of
libraries that already subscribe to many databases asked OPLIN to pursue
group contracts with some popular products they currently subscribe to.
We are preparing to offer Heritage Quest, and one or two others. We've
opened a dialogue with all of the identified companies and will continue
to work toward a group contract.
At the same time, ProQuest and EBSCO came to us with products that look
interesting, and we may also include them.
Will there be another opportunity to participate?
Absolutely. OPLIN plans to open a window to participate twice a year.
We will begin agreements annually in January and in July. To
accommodate that, we hope to get out our Intent-to-Participate forms for
next year in October and in April.
Will OPLIN expand this program?
Part of ensuring that all Ohio residents have access to information
involves finding the lowest possible prices for public library database
subscriptions. We are gathering data on what libraries currently buy
and are looking for ways to reduce prices for them. We will continue to
expand this program. We also plan to meet with other consortia that
license databases on behalf of their participants to see how we can
expand offerings.
How do I sign up?
Return your Intent-to-Participate form as soon as possible!
Carol Lynn Roddy
Executive Director, OPLIN
614.728.5252 (Voice)
614.728.5256 (fax)
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