Pricing Policy for Library Services

Many library services, which generally have been provided free to users, are likely to acquire price tags in the near future. This article addresses two aspects of this issue of vital concern to both library managers and users. First, the pros and cons of user fees for library services are discussed. Economic theory provides sound arguments in support of both sides of the debate in favor of and against user fees. Second, some models for setting user fees embodying two possible choices of objectives for library pricing policy‐profit maximization and maximization of user net benefits‐are discussed and the informational requirements of these models are outlined.