Let's stick together: collaborative purchasing of electronic journals in the National Health Service

Aim: To describe the process and the lessons learned from the collaborative purchasing of electronic journals by National Health Service (NHS) libraries in the East Midlands, UK. Results: The background to a successful joint purchasing initiative is described, including the methodology for selecting titles and the formula for dividing the payment. Factors that have a bearing on successful collaboration are discussed, including use of a Framework Agreement, licensing conditions and measuring impact. Conclusion: NHS librarians working together can leverage collective benefits for users through collaborative purchasing.