JISC national E-books observatory: Initial findings from the project and how we might use them

Abstract

The national e-books observatory is undertaking vital research to inform the development of the e-textbook market in UK higher education in line with user requirements. Funded by JISC, the project is observing the behaviours of students and staff as they use a selection of e-books specially selected to meet undergraduate courses in four subject areas. In addition to finding out how the e-books are discovered and used, the project is measuring the impact of making the e-books freely available through the university library on traditional print sales revenue and library circulation data. Understanding the behaviours of users of e-books and the potential impacts on print sales is essential in developing a sustainable and effective market that will provide users with the e-books they need for teaching and learning.