Hello
As we approach the end of the traditional periods of grace extended to
e-journal subscriptions, I feel a need to comment on Wiley Blackwell and
their handling of both their new pricing policies and their subscription
databases. I expect I am not alone in experiencing a high level of
frustration at an apparent inability of this publisher to even get
simple details like our delivery addresses for printed journals, or an
accurate list of what journals we take - delaying by months the
provision of accurate pricing for e-content.
I am equally piqued at some problems with access to titles disappearing
even before the end of their official grace period (which was February
28th, but I believe has been extended into March). Not only is the
deactivating of content not supposed to happen yet, subscribers do have
archive access protected by licence agreements. It should not be the
subscriber's place to chase reinstatement of access to titles already
activated.
Much as I appreciate the role of this list is for publishers and
librarians to work together, I do feel that a little criticism is
perfectly in order when it is justified. The whole Wiley Blackwell
merger appears to have been less than perfect: although I appreciate
their initiatives such as merging platforms and offering a range of new
backfiles, I remain concerned about their pricing strategy (particularly
when it comes to big deals) and their failure to deliver accurate
information early enough in the decision making process for us to make
well-thought out decisions regarding our title profile and our renewals.
Blackwell Science, as they were then, were one of the first publisher to
make a 'big deal' available for their e-content. With their eventual
merger with Blackwell Publishers and the inclusion of arts and
humanities titles to their profile, they became a trusted name with
titles which have quickly become 'key' in many subject areas. Wiley
Interscience have been no less valuable - and with this in mind their
merger should have been extremely beneficial to subscribers. I'm sad to
think that this strong image might be jeopardised by misinformation,
delay, and uncertainty when it comes to their e-resource deals.
I'd be interested to know if others are experiencing the same issues
and, if anyone from Wiley Blackwell is willing to respond to the list, I
would welcome their input. If we can get a constructive discussion
going, it can only benefit all parties.
Best wishes
Louise
Louise Cole
Senior Information Advisor (Collections)
Nightingale Centre, Kingston Hill Campus
Kingston University
Kingston upon Thames
Surrey
KT2 7LB
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