ABSTRACT
The librarian relationship with book suppliers is a critical element in a library’s overall ability to deliver quality service. Publishing and distribution has seen more change in the past ten years than in the previous one hundred. Librarians must look to book suppliers’ areas of strength and match these to specific library needs. Librarians need to recognize that while the price of a title may be relatively constant, the value of the book to patrons may be time dependent. Librarians must work with suppliers to assure superior service levels to the library while generating sustaining profitability for the supplier. Articulation of library needs and honest, open communication with suppliers contributes to strong librarian-supplier relationships which ultimately yields superior service to the library and the patrons.
