Collection Building

Collecting law and medical titles for general academic collections: what use statistics can tell us : Table of Contents

Michael Levine-Clark, Margaret M. Jobe — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – In order to better understand how collections are used, this study aims to present a large-scale analysis of usage patterns for non-core monographs in the collections of fourteen general academic libraries of varying sizes. Design/methodology/approach – Using Spectra Dimension, a collection analysis tool, this study compares use data from multiple academic libraries. Findings – It appears that general academic libraries are overinvesting in legal materials and perhaps underinvesting in medical materials. Research limitations/implications – This study suggests that analysis of use data from multiple libraries may help individual libraries better understand their own collecting needs. Local issues may, however, override the broad patterns identified here. Practical implications – In lean budgetary times, understanding collection use is key to making informed decisions about resource allocation for collection development. Libraries may be able to use these data to better manage their own materials budgets and collecting practices. Originality/value – Though there have been a number of large-scale analyses of collections, most have relied on sampling or have compared small portions of collections, and few have compared use across libraries. This study analyzes collection use across many institutions at a level of detail not possible before the introduction of multi-library collection analysis tools.

The current scenario of open access journal initiatives in India : Table of Contents

Sarika Sawant — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The overall aim of the research was to gather the data related to open access journal initiatives in India with respect to its type, funding agency/host organization, full text availability, article charges etc. Design/methodology/approach – Various sources of information were consulted such as literature, search engines, directories etc. Findings – Results shows that all 178 open access journals were peer reviewed, indexed and abstracted in various indexing and abstracting services, listed with DOAR and O-Jgate. Research limitations/implications – Open access journals that were available on internet were included but not those which were available on intranet. Originality/value – In the earlier literature it was mentioned that there were about 100 to 110 open access journals and no author paid journals. But the present study discovered the existence of 178 open access journals with three author paid journals.

Building a Sub-Saharan African film collection : Table of Contents

Jessica Schomberg, Barb Bergman — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this article is to help librarians interested in developing a basic understanding of Sub-Saharan African cinema and increase awareness of the resources available when building a collection of sub-Saharan African films for their library. A general review is provided to help become familiar with the history and nature of the four regions discussed. Design/methodology/approach – A collection development project to expand a mid-sized university's collection of sub-Saharan African films is discussed. Includes brief historical information and core titles, selected for their historical role and/or ease of purchase. Findings – A list of core films is recommended for academic and public libraries representing four geographic regions of sub-Saharan Africa: Nigeria, South Africa, West Africa, and East Africa. Research limitations/implications – Unfortunately, many of the titles referenced in academic literature and winners of African film awards are not available for purchase outside of Africa, making it impossible to accomplish our goal of collecting a core list as intended. Practical implications – The paper increases awareness of African cinema and value inclusion in library collections. Originality/value – While there are general articles on the topic of African cinema, there are no recent articles on the topic of collecting African films for libraries.

Back to basics: international collection development on a shoestring : Table of Contents

Nara L. Newcomer — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This article aims to explore collection development for small libraries facing an extremely restricted budget, with an additional focus on international school libraries. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing on the author's experience as a professional consultant for Oasis International School, Ankara, Turkey, this case study provides collection development advice, tips for librarians interested in volunteering or international travel, and a literature review. Findings – An extremely restricted budget and the complexities of an international environment need not prevent libraries from taking steps towards improving their collection. Strategies include: seeking targeted donations from publishers, granting organizations, individuals, and others; intelligently exploiting non-targeted donations; utilizing volunteers; carefully balancing preservation and access; and implementing a basic inventory/circulation system. Research limitations/implications – Similar case studies undertaken at other libraries would add to the sparse literature on restricted budget and international school library collection development. Practical implications – International and domestic school libraries facing a restricted budget will gain concrete advice on collection development. Librarians interested in volunteering or international librarianship will find practical guidance. Originality/value – This article fills a gap in library scholarship by focusing on collection development issues facing international school libraries with an extremely restricted budget.

Lending Kindle e-book readers: first results from the Texas A&M University project : Table of Contents

Dennis T. Clark — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper aims to evaluate the reception of the Amazon Kindle e-book lending program at the Texas A&M University Libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents an analysis of genre of titles requested to be loaded onto the e-book readers as well as a general review of the e-book lending model. Findings – The Kindle e-book readers were extremely popular, and users selected titles for them that were mostly of a general reading nature; academic titles were rarely selected. The Texas A&M lending service has been successful and will continue. Other libraries should investigate e-book readers to supplement their bestseller and new book collections. Practical implications – E-book devices offer sophisticated users a reading option that fits many needs. This is a relatively new way that libraries can offer sophisticated users options for reading; libraries must continue to invest in new ways of delivering content. Originality/value – This is the first study on e-book reader lending services in libraries.

Great websites for art history : Table of Contents

Ching-Jung Chen — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper aims to identify a selection of websites for the study and enjoyment of the visual arts. Design/methodology/approach – From the hundreds of offerings on the world wide web, the 24 public sites featured in this article are distinguished by the quality of their content, design, and ease of use. Findings – The best websites are great tools for teachers, students, and interested individuals to explore and learn about the visual arts. Taking advantage of advancing technology, they offer experiences that go far beyond convenient delivery of traditional analog materials. Originality/value – Offers practical suggestions for public and academic librarians on the most useful and usable public websites devoted to the visual arts.