Since 1980s the bar of services provided by vendors has been raised. Vendors have been asked to provide call numbers, original cataloging, etc. Library staff must be involved with development of specifications. It is important that vendor professional librarians remain involved in mainstream library activities. Outsourcing is not a substitute for bad management.
Staff are civil servants.
ALA Council took no position. Features of the Hawaii plan. No staff input. Material was not returnable. Flat fee for each title.