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A performance index approach to library collection

A performance index approach to library collection Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the new application of a performance index ( p ‐index), extending its use to libraries for measuring and evaluating library circulation statistics in terms of quality and quantity of library books usage by subjects. Design/methodology/approach – The study uses NISCAIR library circulation data and computes p ‐index as well as h ‐index for comparing usage in different subjects. Findings – The results indicate that a two dimensional map of quality vs quantity of transactions can be used for better understanding and evaluation of library usage. Research limitations/implications – The h ‐ and p ‐indices and the quality‐quantity maps can be used as a benchmark for monitoring library performance in addition to finding out high value areas in the library collection, high value users, and high value books. Practical implications – The paper is able to supplement the insights normally available from routine statistical analysis of circulation data. Originality/value – This study may help in providing knowledge/insights in building up collections. http://www.deepdyve.com/assets/images/DeepDyve-Logo-lg.png Performance Measurement and Metrics Emerald Publishing

A performance index approach to library collection

Performance Measurement and Metrics , Volume 11 (3): 7 – Nov 30, 2010

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Publisher
Emerald Publishing
Copyright
Copyright © 2010 Emerald Group Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.
ISSN
1467-8047
DOI
10.1108/14678041011098532
Publisher site
See Article on Publisher Site

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the new application of a performance index ( p ‐index), extending its use to libraries for measuring and evaluating library circulation statistics in terms of quality and quantity of library books usage by subjects. Design/methodology/approach – The study uses NISCAIR library circulation data and computes p ‐index as well as h ‐index for comparing usage in different subjects. Findings – The results indicate that a two dimensional map of quality vs quantity of transactions can be used for better understanding and evaluation of library usage. Research limitations/implications – The h ‐ and p ‐indices and the quality‐quantity maps can be used as a benchmark for monitoring library performance in addition to finding out high value areas in the library collection, high value users, and high value books. Practical implications – The paper is able to supplement the insights normally available from routine statistical analysis of circulation data. Originality/value – This study may help in providing knowledge/insights in building up collections.

Journal

Performance Measurement and MetricsEmerald Publishing

Published: Nov 30, 2010

Keywords: Indexing; Collections management; Libraries; Usage statistics

References