We currently use Blackwell's for new book ordering, since the former head of this library believed it was best for architecture titles. However, I often can't find titles in Blackwell's, and I don't find their Web site particularly user-friendly. Orders seem to remain "open" for months without any indication as to their status. In direct contrast, I use Baker & Taylor's Title Source at another (public) library where I work, and they give real-time inventory information and seem to have titles that aren't listed in Blackwell's. After comparison shopping on a few items it appears that the B&T discounts are significantly better than the across-the-board 15.5% discount we get from Blackwell's (though I believe B&T charges libraries to access their online ordering system, while Blackwell's does not.) In any case, even Amazon seems to offer more than a 15% discount on all but obscure titles.
Before making a case for a switch to another vendor, I was hoping to find out from colleagues in art/architecture libraries which vendors you prefer and why. I'll summarize for the list if anyone is interested. Thanks.
Lauren Gilbert
Art Librarian
Education Hall Library
New York Institute of Technology
Northern Boulevard
Old Westbury, New York 11568-8000
tel (516) 686-1448
fax (516) 686-7814
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