Comparison of usage data of a print journal title versus electronic counterpart

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to provide insights and commentary into issues encountered in maintaining and assessing library technologies and technology-based services with limited budgets and with limited personnel. Design/methodology/approach – It uses usage data to illustrate effects of a conversion of a single journal title from print to electronic format. Findings – The conversion of a print journal subscription to electronic access resulted in a substantial decrease in cost per use despite an increase in overall subscription cost. Originality/value – This paper examines the effects of acquiring current electronic content based upon usage of a single, high use embargoed journal title in an aggregator package. Differences between print and electronic usage and cost per use are described in detail.