Negotiating with the scientific publishers A new experience for the Italian Astronomical Libraries

Abstract

In 2016, Italian Astronomical Libraries decided not to renew their subscriptions to electronic journals directly with the most important scientific publishers but to adhere, wherever possible, to the negotiating activities conducted by CARE, a coordinating group within the Libraries Commission, of the Conference of Italian University Rectors (CRUI), the Italian association of state and private universities. Participating in a consortium would have meant better economic conditions for INAF and more favourable contract terms for the final user. Advantages and disadvantages of direct negotiations with the publishers or of participation in a large consortium are analyzed here.