Changing Times: Assessment of Continuing Resources Due to Budget Cuts Necessitated by COVID-19

Abstract

Due to COVID-19, a purchasing freeze was implemented, and budget cuts mandated by Eastern Washington University. This necessitated a review of all the library’s continuing resources with a short turnaround time for decision-making due to subscription renewal deadlines. Considering quantitative and qualitative factors, a collaborative effort from internal stakeholders ensued. A tiered collection assessment decision making approach was designed and implemented. Cancellations ensued, and 25 percent of the collections budget was cut. This project involved a systematic review of databases, individual journal subscriptions, and print standing orders. A project of this scale could not have been as efficient and effective without the cooperative effort between those in collection services, public services, faculty, and administration.