Incoming!: Surviving the Barrage of Vendor Communications

For those in collection management, dealing with vendors is an integral part ofthe job. Yet the sheer volume of e-mails, phone calls, and other communications cansometimes leave one feeling as though under assault. This paper analyzes real-worldexamples of vendor communications and assesses their relevance and usefulness. It alsoprovides tips and strategies for managing such communications effectively. Conveyinglibrary needs and expectations back to vendors, for example, is a critical step. Fortheir part, vendors will have an opportunity to see what works and what doesn’t from alibrarian’s perspective so that they may in turn learn how to communicate moreefficiently with their customers.