Journal Collection Analysis at a Liberal Arts College

Abstract

An inexpensive method for analyzing the cost-effectiveness of a liberal arts college’s journal collection is described. The author offers an answer to the question: “What are the criteria for determining the cost-effectiveness of a journal collection, and how can the criteria be measured?” The resulting analysis is based on measurements of journal use, journal subscription prices, and course enrollment by academic department. Journal use data are also applied to shelf space management. Data collection methods are explained, and results of collection analysis are presented. The importance and benefits of empirical analysis of journal collections are discussed, and practical applications of the analysis are described.