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Evaluation of monograph selection in a health sciences library
1University of Illinois at Chicago, Library of the Health Sciences, Urbana 61801.
Bulletin of the Medical Library Association
|July 1, 1994
Summary
A study of academic health sciences library book usage revealed over 60% of recent selections were rarely or never used. This suggests optimizing collection development and leveraging remote access for health sciences libraries.
Area of Science:
- Library and Information Science
- Health Sciences Librarianship
- Collection Management
Background:
- Academic health sciences libraries face challenges in optimizing monograph collections.
- Evaluating the actual use of newly acquired materials is crucial for effective resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the usage patterns of recent monograph selections in a small academic health sciences library.
- To identify factors influencing the utilization of library resources.
- To inform collection development strategies and resource management.
Main Methods:
- Monograph usage was tracked using date-due slips for recent acquisitions.
- Data were analyzed by subject, discipline, and frequency of use.
- Qualitative assessment of usage data was conducted to identify influencing factors.
Main Results:
- Over 60% of recently selected monographs showed little to no recorded use.
- Usage patterns varied significantly across different subject areas and disciplines.
- Analysis identified potential factors contributing to low or high material utilization.
Conclusions:
- A significant portion of new monograph acquisitions in health sciences libraries may be underutilized.
- Collection development strategies should prioritize high-use materials and consider remote access for less frequently needed items.
- Health sciences libraries are encouraged to conduct similar usage studies to refine collection management and questioning the need for comprehensive collections.