The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances

Cost-benefit analysis: a disparagement of its misuse and misexplanation : Table of Contents

Mott Linn Jr — Sat Oct 31 08:00:32 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to argue that when managing strategically, a library administrator might want to use cost-benefit analysis to justify spending and, consequently, would need to understand this methodology. Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses and gives examples to illustrate how others have needed a better knowledge of cost-benefit analysis. Findings – It is helpful for library managers to have a proper knowledge of cost-benefit analysis. Practical implications – This provides one methodology that librarians should consider when contemplating what purchases to make. Original/value – This paper will help librarians better manage their libraries by making them aware of cost-benefit analysis.

Sustainability by engagement : Table of Contents

James W. Marcum — Sat Oct 31 08:00:32 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to define engagement and propose the utility of the concept in developing sustainable libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The paper compares traditional “motivation” practices with methods of engagement for relevance in organizations where knowledge work is dominant or important. Findings – The paper finds evidence that “motivation,” relying on rewards, is not productive in such organizations. Practical applications – It is argued that traditional “motivation” practices are not productive with knowledge workers and that engagement ideas have the potential of attracting greater staff commitment. Originality/value – The proposal is for directors and managers that engagement methods have the potential of attracting greater staff commitment to the organization and its work.

Resource management: materials, equipment, facilities : Table of Contents

Gary Fitsimmons — Sat Oct 31 08:00:32 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the management of physical resources (materials, equipment, and facilities) as a performance standard for leadership. Design/methodology/approach – The approach of the paper is to list general principles for physical resource management and then discuss the understanding needed for the creative application of those principles. Findings – The findings are that library leaders must understand how to collaborate, negotiate and formulate policies in order to manage physical resources well for the sake of the bottom line as well as the quality of the user and staff experience. Originality/value – The value is in learning how to use interpersonal interaction to effectively manage physical resources in a way that advances overall organizational goals.

Do we get what we pay for? : Table of Contents

Kirstin Steele — Sat Oct 31 08:00:32 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the use of intermediary companies (i.e. jobbers) in library operations Design/methodology/approach – The paper investigates how service charges are determined, if any industry standards for these charges exist, and if so, how they are monitored by companies and clients. Practical implications – Not much is known about the nature of jobber's business. This discussion has reinforced Daniel that the library makes good use of the jobbers employed, but has also underscored the importance of being able to explain, to people outside the library field, why they are important to library operation. Findings – For the authors' small academic library, employing intermediaries is currently worth the service charges. Originality/value – It is hoped librarians and library staff who use or are considering using intermediary businesses will find these experiences useful.

Six new approaches : Table of Contents

John Maxymuk — Sat Oct 31 08:00:32 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine some of the leading competitors to Google in searching the world wide web. Design/methodology/approach – This paper discusses six search engines that are alternatives to Google: Bing, Wolfram Alpha, Topsy, Scoopler, Scribd, and Data.gov Findings – The paper finds that all but Bing among the six search tools have a narrower and more defined approach than Google. Each has value in context. Originality/value – The paper provides an evaluation of when these more specialized tools would be useful to internet searchers.

Customer acquisition costs: the costs of growing business in public libraries : Table of Contents

Larry Nash White — Sat Oct 31 08:00:32 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the associated customer acquisition costs of public libraries. The intention of the paper is to develop awareness of the hidden costs associated with customer acquisition, and develop assessment tools or models to effectively manage the resources associated with customer acquisition to aid library administrators in strategic budgeting and planning. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is prepared through review of the library and business literature associated with customer acquisitions. No definitive data on customer turnover rates or models of assessing customer acquisitions cost are identified in the review of the literature. Findings – While not identified or managed systematically, the calculation of customer acquisition costs, customer turnover rates, and the effective management of associated customer acquisition cost is strategically imperative for public libraries. Public libraries generally do not track customer turnover or the associated costs of acquiring new or replacement customers that come about due to this turnover. There is not a definitive estimate of customer turnover in public libraries, so exact costs determination will vary by public library system. Public libraries can reduce their customer acquisition costs through the retention of current customers with high quality service and in effectively managing the customer acquisition process in the strategic budgeting and planning processes of the library. Originality/value – Libraries that can effectively acquire new or replacement customers and manage the costs of this process will more effectively utilize resources and maximize customer value for the library. This paper proposes several cost assessment calculations to help guide library administrators in making strategic decisions.

Philanthropy can begin at home : Table of Contents

Emily Silverman — Sat Oct 31 08:00:32 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to inspire thinking about the nature of philanthropy. Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses views of giving motivation and behavior. Findings – This paper proposes that perceptions of fundraising can be examined to better understand what may motivate prospective donors. Originality/value – The value of this paper is in its presenting concepts about philanthropy and libraries.