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Journal deselection in a biomedical research library: a mediated mathematical approach
1Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, University of California, Livermore 94550.
Bulletin of the Medical Library Association
|January 1, 1990
Summary
A new formula evaluated journal cost-effectiveness, enabling significant subscription cost reductions. This library deselection method balanced mathematical analysis with user input to minimize patron impact.
Area of Science:
- Library and Information Science
- Bibliometrics
- Collection Management
Background:
- Libraries face increasing subscription costs.
- Traditional methods for journal deselection can be inefficient.
- Balancing budget constraints with user needs is crucial for academic libraries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a mathematical formula for journal deselection.
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of journal subscriptions.
- To inform library subscription cancellation decisions.
Main Methods:
- Developed a unique mathematical formula incorporating cost factors (subscription, shelving, storage, interlibrary loan, staffing) and use level.
- Calculated an institutional cost ratio for 537 journal titles.
- Established a committee of library staff and users to review ranked lists and consider subjective criteria for deselection.
- Incorporated feedback from research users to refine the cancellation list.
Main Results:
- Achieved a 46% reduction in library subscription costs.
- Reduced total journal use by only 8%.
- Successfully mediated mathematical analysis with human judgment.
Conclusions:
- The developed formula provides a cost-effective approach to journal deselection.
- Combining quantitative data with qualitative user input ensures patron needs are considered.
- This hybrid method allows for significant budget savings without compromising essential resources.