Exploring experiences of librarians in Zimbabwean state universities with the consortium model of subscribing to electronic journals

Abstract

The study explores the experiences of librarians in three state universities in Zimbabwe with the consortium model of subscribing to electronic journals. The study employed a qualitative approach. Interviews were held with nine professional librarians from each of the participating institutions. Findings showed that state universities in Zimbabwe have benefitted from consortium subscribed electronic journals; however, librarians were concerned about their coverage and relevancy. Librarians felt disempowered as they have lost the independence to select resources suitable for their own institutions. The lack of archival rights is detrimental to post-termination access to previously subscribed resources. Institutions face challenges with technological infrastructure that allows them to convey consortium resources to their users. The study provides important insight into the practice of consortium from a developing country context. The findings will alert consortia managers and member institutions to the key shortfalls of consortia arrangements. The study’s recommendations hopefully triggers corrective actions aimed at improving the practice of consortia to the benefit of end users.