Study on Discount Trends in Scientific Publications

Abstract

The present study has been made to investigate trends in discounts offered on a wide range of scientific publications including Textbooks, Reference books, Print and e–journals, eBooks, e–resources, Government publications, books published in languages, society/Associations/Academies/University publications, Audio–visual e–learning/i–learning, Databases, CDROMs, etc. Libraries have adopted certain standard procurement methods for purchase of various materials from vendors/agents/publishers and distributors registered with associations or reputed suppliers. Print Books account for 15% e–commerce trade in India and more than 70% of books published are available as eBooks by the leading publishers of India. The present study is based on data collected from 2016–17 to 2018–19 pertaining to prevailing trends in discount offered the market. It is expected that the findings of the study will lead to better financial management of library system. The discount offered varies from publisher to suppliers. There is a high variation in discount offered on paperbacks and hardbound books; also differences in discount rates for Indian books and foreign publications. There is no uniformity in discounts offered.