A comparison of pricing strategies for bibliographical databases on CDROM and equivalent printed products

Library managers are often concerned to assess the most cost effective means of access to bibliographic data. This article considers comparative prices for bibliographic data on CDROM and in print form. In many instances, CDROM offers added value and easier access to data, but the relative cost is important. Library managers need not only to compare prices but to consider cost effectiveness. Differences between the nature of bibliographic data on CDROM and in a printed bibliography or abstracting and indexing service, and the relative complexities of pricing structures for bibliographic data in both CDROM and print form, both hinder comparisons. Varying policies on network pricing are an added complication when assessing a CDROM service. Some standardisation of aspects of the licensing arrangements would be welcome.