You are here: American University University Library Services Vendor Trial Policy
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Vendor Trial Policy
What is a vendor trial?
A vendor trial is a limited period of free access to an electronic resource. An electronic resource may be a database, an electronic journal or book, or other online library material requiring a subscription to access it (see some examples ).
Who can set up a vendor trial?
Trials must be set up by the library. Teaching faculty interested in a trial must work with a librarian, preferably a subject librarian for their department or school.
Why do we set up a trial?
The purpose of a trial is to assess the resource's value for purchase. The Library will not set up trials for a one-time individual need.
What criteria do we use to assess a resource's value?
Here are the factors we consider:
- Does the resource improve the overall collection?
- Would the resource get broad use?
- What are the costs?
- Does it work with our discovery system?
- Is it ADA compliant?
- Is access by ip address or single-sign on available?
How do I request a vendor trial?
Submit a .