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Comparing electronic vs print book preferences between students in the social sciences, the arts and STEM

Lee A. Cummings (University Libraries, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA)
Anne Larrivee (University Libraries, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA)
Leslie Vega (University Libraries, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA)

Library Hi Tech News

ISSN: 0741-9058

Article publication date: 1 June 2015

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine if there were any distinct differences in e-book usage habits among students in the social sciences, technical fields and the arts.

Design/methodology/approach

To complete this study, students from three different disciplinary areas were surveyed. The same nine questions were posed to each student group, with slight modifications to some questions based on the discipline.

Findings

The results of this study show that students in each discipline have a preference for convenience and accessibility, whether material is print or electronic. Some more unique characteristics between disciplines include the percentage of students using books and frequency of e-book usage.

Originality/value

This study is unique in that it compares the preferences and habits of three specific groups of students from unrelated disciplines. It will be useful for librarians who manage collections for various disciplines and want a better understanding of what should be considered when choosing a format for materials.

Keywords

Citation

Cummings, L.A., Larrivee, A. and Vega, L. (2015), "Comparing electronic vs print book preferences between students in the social sciences, the arts and STEM", Library Hi Tech News, Vol. 32 No. 4, pp. 1-4. https://doi.org/10.1108/LHTN-10-2014-0088

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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