Free electronic books and weeding

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose is to explore using databases of freely available electronic books as part of a library's collection.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considered whether expensive discovery services, an OCLC product, or an open source product would be practical alternatives to the current labor‐intensive system used.

Findings

An open source product introduced in 2010 called GIST Gift and Deselection Manager (GDM) appears to fit the author's needs nearly exactly.

Research limitations/implications

Since earlier Getting It System Toolkit (GIST) workflow products have a proven track record, the author would expect library students and practitioners to also experiment with the Gift and Deselection Manager.

Practical implications

All can start using GDM anytime when they are ready, without spending any money.

Social implications

The paper highlights an open source workflow option.

Originality/value

The paper notes that the Gift and Deselection Manager was released on August 16, 2010, an event of which some library professionals might not be aware.

Citation

Steele, K. (2011), "Free electronic books and weeding", The Bottom Line, Vol. 24 No. 3, pp. 160-161. https://doi.org/10.1108/08880451111185982