Electronic Resource Management When Using a Network Zone

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Introduction

In an Alma network environment, electronic resources can be managed either centrally in the Network Zone or locally in the Institution Zone of a member institution. Alma supports both models, allowing consortia to choose the approach that best fits their governance and licensing needs.

Best practice is to manage shared electronic resources centrally in the Network Zone. In this model, electronic collections and portfolios are activated and maintained once in the Network Zone, typically from the Community Zone, and made available to member institutions using Inventory Network Groups. Inventory Network Groups control which institutions (and, where relevant, which libraries or campuses) have access to each resource, ensuring accurate discovery in Alma and Primo, as well as correct full-text access via the OpenURL resolver.

Member institutions may also manage electronic resources locally in their Institution Zone, for example, when a resource is licensed only for a single institution or represents a local exception to the consortial agreement. This local management is fully supported by Alma. However, to reduce duplication, ensure consistent access, and simplify ongoing maintenance, it is recommended that only local exceptions are managed in the Institution Zone, while consortial subscriptions and shared resources are managed in the Network Zone and shared with members.

This hybrid approach provides centralized control and consistency at the network level, while retaining flexibility for institution-specific electronic resources when needed.

For a detailed webinar describing the workflow and process, see Managing Electronic Resources in a Network Zone Using Inventory Network Groups (June 18, 2024).