Data Driven Collections: Right-Sizing Library Collections
Thursday, April 7, 2016, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Colorado Convention Center, Room 601/603/605/607
This session will explore how evidence-based collection analysis can be used to inform collection funding, weeding, and corresponding shelving changes to adjust to patron demands and interests, with the goal of increasing collection use and making better investments with collection dollars. A panel of representatives from a variety of public libraries will be present to share their own experiences, discuss tools that they use, and encourage discussion surrounding best practice.
An online version of this concurrent program session was presented during the PLA 2016 Virtual Conference.
At the end of this session, participants will:
1: Understand the concept of relative use of library collections by measuring circulation vs. shelf allocation.
2: Learn how libraries can use relative use trends and other tools to inform and support adjustments in shelf allocation to increase collection use.
3: Understand that shifts in funding by collection should be supported by corresponding shifts in shelving to meet patron demand.
The session organizer(s) identified this session as appropriate for:
Level 2: People with some knowledge, who want to increase their understanding.
This session will have: Low interaction: single speaker/panel with Q&A at the end of the program
Handouts: Download 1 Download 2
Track: Plan
Tags: Collections/Tech Services, Budget Planning and Finance, Collection Development, Innovation, Strategic Planning, Trends and Forecasting
Presenters
Debra Lambert, Director of Collection Management
Indianapolis Public Library, Indianapolis, IN
Passionate about moving libraries and their patrons into the digital world, Deb Lambert has spent years balancing digital and physical library collections during this transition. As Director of Collection Management at IndyPL, she encourages her staff to utilize digital analysis and technology to streamline processes and collaborate efficiently to provide excellent service at 23 library locations. Previously, Deb was Manager of Technical Services and Collection Development for Lee County (FL) Library System.
Thomas Finley, Adult Services Librarian
Frisco Public Library, Carrollton, TX
Thomas Finley is the Adult Services Manager for the Frisco Public Library, in Frisco, Texas. Thomas is also a co-founder of the Texas Innovation Group, a collection of librarians and educators from across the region who are racing to meet the future science and technology needs of library patrons and students by raising the collective capabilities of community educators in STEM and STEAM topics.