Journal selection decisions: a biomedical library operations research model. I. The framework

Area of Science:

• Library and Information Science
• Biomedical Librarianship
• Collection Development

Background:

• Biomedical libraries face challenges in selecting optimal journal titles for acquisition.
• Traditional methods may lack objectivity and efficiency in journal selection.
• Effective serials management is crucial for supporting research and clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a practical and rational model for selecting biomedical journal titles.
• To establish a cost-benefit framework for journal acquisition decisions.
• To guide the collection of relevant data for informed library management.

Main Methods:

• Modeling journal selection based on cost/benefit ratios.
• Defining measures of journal worth and evaluating data collection methods.
• Analyzing journal cost data and library statistics.

Main Results:

• A practical process for selecting journal titles was developed.
• The model emphasizes objectivity and rationality in decision-making.
• Guidelines for reasonable data collection and library statistics were established.

Conclusions:

• The proposed model offers a systematic approach to biomedical journal acquisition.
• Implementation can lead to more efficient and effective serials management.
• The process supports the development of a comprehensive management information system (MIS) for serials handling.