This database is a resource that libraries can use to reduce the information asymmetry typically plaguing vendor negotiations. It contains thousands of pricing details from library “Big Deals”, bundles of journals offered by publishers at a discount off of aggregated list price. Like many industries (think of buying a car), when only one side has a detailed understanding of (a) line item costs and (b) what constitutes market rate, striking a fair deal can very challenging. This database attempts to put libraries on closer to a level playing field with vendors by detailing what peer institutions have paid for journal subscription packages. Libraries can leverage this pricing data, as well as the guidance and other resources on this site, to both make clearer assessments about the suitability of these Big Deals and to strengthen their negotiating power.
Sourcing: For FTE data, UK Higher Education Statistics Agency for UK FTE (HE student enrolment FTE + HE staff); DOE IPEDS for US FTE (“Full-time equivalent fall enrollment” + “Total FTE staff”); Universities Canada and COPPUL for Canadian FTE (student data only); for institution size, Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education
