Collection Building

How using an allocation formula changed funding allocations at Long Island University : Table of Contents

Charles I. Guarria — Sun Apr 26 14:15:03 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe how the Brooklyn Campus Library of Long Island University evaluated the present budget allocation process and took corrective action regarding the distribution of the materials budget (books, CDs, DVDs, and VHS). Design/methodology/approach – A literature review is conducted to discern which (if any) budget allocation formulas would be useful in updating the budget allocation process. Findings – There is some controversy in the literature about the value of using a mathematical equation or formula to distribute the materials budget. Within the group of librarians who favor using these equations there is a debate as to which model is the most effective. Further, there is a division over the best approach to an allocation. The efficacy of allocation formulas, historical spending and circulation statistics are a few of the issues that are debated in the literature. Practical implications – This article provides useful information for acquisitions librarians in analyzing a budget line – in this case, the materials budget that in many libraries is being restricted or reduced. It serves as a reminder that processes need to be reviewed periodically as opposed to simply accepting the process because “that's the way it's always been done”. Originality/value – The paper provides insight into an urban mid-sized library's acquisitions department efforts to manage more effectively the monies allocated to the department. Peer institutions may gain a new perspective that helps in their budget allocation process.

Selection criteria for mobile library collections : Table of Contents

Glenn Davidson, Dan Dorner — Sun Apr 26 14:15:03 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discover the criteria upon which selection decisions are made in six mobile libraries in New Zealand. Design/methodology/approach – In this qualitative study data were gathered from interviews with six mobile librarians. The study is guided conceptually by the perceived need for a collection development policy and a selection procedures statement to guide selection, and the needs versus wants debate. Findings – The data suggest that there is no universal approach to the selection of material for mobile library collections; mobile librarians achieve a balance between users' needs and wants to some extent when selecting; and there is no relationship between the nature of mobile library services and the serving of needs and wants. The researchers contend that mobile librarians' selection decisions are influenced by various criteria other than users' needs or users' wants. Research limitations/implications – This qualitative research is based on the analysis of the selection practices of six mobile librarians in New Zealand. Future research might seek to replicate this study's methodology using a larger population or investigate the lack of emphasis on reference services on some mobile libraries or the management of fixed, floating, and integrated mobile library collections. Originality/value – Only a slight amount of literature exists about the selection of mobile library collections. This study will be of interest to mobile librarians in New Zealand and elsewhere who wish to obtain a better understanding of current selection practices. It will also act as guiding literature to help mobile librarians to make better informed selection decisions.

A web utility for OPAC searching by ISBN : Table of Contents

Karl Suhr — Sun Apr 26 14:15:03 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss modifying an existing bookmarklet which is a button-based tool that adds functionality to a web browser. This modification allows an individual to search a library's OPAC by ISBN for numbers encountered in the body of web documents such as bibliographies or book reviews. Design/methodology/approach – The paper documents the code for the bookmarklet and its modification for different browsers. Findings – The process involves using JavaScript to copy highlighted text from a web page and send it as a search to the local OPAC. Practical implications – This tool allows the user to check if a particular book encountered on the web is held in a local library by highlighting the ISBN tool and clicking a browser button. The utility may be useful to library patrons as a discovery tool for finding books and can be used to automate aspects of daily library operations. Suggested applications and further variations and modifications to search by data elements other than ISBN, such as ISSN or title are discussed. Originality/value – The process discussed adds a new way to access a library's holdings.

Learning from experts: collection development in business : Table of Contents

Soojung Kim — Sun Apr 26 14:15:03 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify the types of information useful for the business domain and resources for specific information types. Also, it aims to discuss a methodological approach for identifying core resources in a particular discipline. Design/methodology/approach – Content analysis of business materials identifies a set of business tasks and questions. Based on the results of content analysis, a survey simulating real reference situations is conducted with academic business reference librarians. Findings – The paper identifies the types of information most useful both for business as a whole and for the sub-fields (entrepreneurship, finance, management, and marketing). The resources suggested by participants are summarized for each type of information. Practical implications – The findings are helpful for academic business librarians for collection development as well as for database selection for a specific query. Originality/value – The suggested methodology for identifying core resources in a particular discipline has general applicability across other disciplines.

Contemporary German-language literature in English translation: a checklist of the works of the younger generation : Table of Contents

Barbara F.H. Allen — Sun Apr 26 14:15:03 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to introduce librarians, faculty, and other interested individuals to contemporary German literature in English translation. Design/methodology/approach – German-language authors born in 1950 or later and listed on the Contemporary Living Authors Comprehensive List developed by the German vendor Otto Harrassowitz are searched in OCLC's WorldCat database to determine the existence of English translations. A bio-bibliographical list is then developed featuring all contemporary German-language authors who have achieved an English language translation of at least one of their literary works. Findings – Of the approximately 1,400 writers on Harrassowitz's comprehensive list, a surprisingly large number of almost 80 authors of the younger generation (born in 1950 or later) have been translated into English. Originality/value – This bio-bibliography of contemporary German belles lettres (of the younger generation) in English translation is the first of its kind. It can be used by librarians to check their current library holdings and to expand their collections of German literature in English translation.

Building a pre-Code video collection : Table of Contents

Jennifer Tang — Sun Apr 26 14:15:03 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper aims to focus on a group of films that were made during a little-known period of Hollywood filmmaking known as the “pre-Code” era. It seeks to provide an overview, historical background, and a general discussion about censorship and the cinema. Design/methodology/approach – This research examines key actors, directors, and films that exemplify the characteristics of “pre-Code”. The criteria for inclusion set by this study take into account not only their subject matter, but their availability on home video. Findings – This comprehensive bibliography includes information on some of the actors who appeared in these films as well as summaries of select films. Commercial web sites that distribute and sell pre-Code films are also presented. Key actors, directors, films, and companies that were involved in the production of pre-Code films are identified and discussed. General reference works about film are highlighted as well as web sites, blogs, and other online resources that provide reviews and detailed discussions of pre-Code Hollywood films. Originality/value – The article offers guidelines for building a pre-Code video collection and discusses why its subject matter is of interest to academia, especially in regard to women's and ethnic studies courses.