Pressure points in vendor relationships: tips for working with outsourced staff

Abstract

Acquisitions is the central part of a technical services department, yet at some libraries not all technical services duties are performed by employees. Working with outsourced technical services staff has enabled us to maintain service levels without our budget. For other libraries in the same situation (or considering such a move), it is well worth the time spent to carefully consider all aspects of the duties and staff involved, as well as which vendor relationships may or may not be affected.