A survey study of the 2007 Chinese e-books consortium

Purpose - This paper aims to share the successful experiences and suggestions from the 2007 Chinese e-books consortium.Design methodology approach - A survey of the participant libraries of the 2007 Chinese e-books consortium was conducted. Survey results were analyzed.Findings - The consortium improved the Chinese collections with perpetual ownership, and demonstrated the bargaining power that exists through a consortium. Most participants would consider joining the consortium in the future.Research limitations implications - Since the 2007 Chinese e-books consortium has only just been completed, the usage statistics have not been compiled. It will be interesting to see how readers adapt to the Chinese e-books in the future.Practical implications - The results have practical implications for the operation of library consortia.Originality value - This study provides the latest opinions and suggestions from the consortium participants, which can be valuable to those who are interested in initiating new library consortia. The study results can also be of value to librarians who are considering joining any library consortia.