ABSTRACT
This chapter presents key considerations for decision-makers involved in putting into practice ideas for a priced service, as part of overall library and information service (LIS) provision. The notion of making a charge to users of library and information services is not new even in the context of free public library services. The possibilities and costs of providing new services or existing services in new formats, for example in recent years the provision of Internet access in public libraries, raise the same issues. Management skills have become as important to the LIS manager as to the Head of Marketing, and so has recognition of the vital role played by information services in an organisation. Another key factor in the development of fee-based services has been technology: software to assist in the management planning process, additional electronic or telecommunications-based products from which to offer new services such as real-time financial information, digital imaging, and of course the Internet.
