2. Collection Development & Assessment

1. Implement an innovative assessment methodology that utilizes text analysis to capture and understand users’ e-book search behaviors and information needs, 
2. Evaluate when and why e-books are used by faculty and students in conjunction with scholarly activities,
3. Create e-book collection development strategies that are based on observed search behaviors and information needs.

The study utilizes an innovative assessment method based on text analysis, faculty interviews, and student focus groups. The objective is to understand users’ e-book search behaviors and information needs across disciplines at Columbia University. The findings indicate that the e-book collection supports discontinuous reading, instruction, and ready reference.