Do we get what we pay for?
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the use of intermediary companies (i.e. jobbers) in library operations
Design/methodology/approach
The paper investigates how service charges are determined, if any industry standards for these charges exist, and if so, how they are monitored by companies and clients.
Practical implications
Not much is known about the nature of jobber's business. This discussion has reinforced Daniel that the library makes good use of the jobbers employed, but has also underscored the importance of being able to explain, to people outside the library field, why they are important to library operation.
Findings
For the authors' small academic library, employing intermediaries is currently worth the service charges.
Originality/value
It is hoped librarians and library staff who use or are considering using intermediary businesses will find these experiences useful.
Keywords
Citation
Steele, K. (2009), "Do we get what we pay for?", The Bottom Line, Vol. 22 No. 3, pp. 79-81. https://doi.org/10.1108/08880450910999631
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited