Addresses the question of whether interest in downloading into local electronic libraries is a reflection of user needs or is being generated by those who have something to sell. Growth of online services, growth of local computer capacity, purposes of a local electronic library, and sources of data are highlighted. (EJS)

The access and reproduction policies of the digital collections of 10 leading university digital libraries worldwide are classified according to factors such as the creation type of the material, acquisition method, copyright ownership etc. The relationship of these factors is analysed, showing how acquisition methods and copyright ownership…

Reports findings of Project ACORN (Access to COurse Readings Across Networks) an eLib-funded project eliciting views of publishers on issues associated with electronic short-loan collections and the policies/procedures for granting copyright clearance. Findings show little consensus in policies and views; publishers wary of electronic environment;…