A simple algebraic method of compensating for inflation while allocating the book budget by funds is presented. The results of attempts to generate library-resource unit cost figures based on internal measurement of buying patterns are described. (Author)

Inflation is currently affecting library book budgets, particularly the acquisition of serials. This model would balance the purchase of serials against the purchase of monographs by individual funding units within the academic library. Consideration is given to inflation as a cost factor. The model is applied to a specific example. (Author/LS)

This article reviews the key features of zero base budgeting as a budgeting/planning system, discusses the applications of ZBB reported in the literature, and summarizes its special benefits and problems for libraries. Fifteen references are included. (Author/RAA)

Allocative formulas are preferred alternatives for distributing the book budget among departmental funds. Economic efficiency via cost-effectiveness analysis is suggested as potentially useful for within fund acquisition of library-resource units. (Author)

Directed toward the novice in systems work, it is the purpose of this article to generalize at a very elementary level a methodology or approach which can be used in conducting a systems study. (34 references) (Author/NH)

A model is presented in which the division of library resources among competing interests is based upon considerations of economic efficiency. It is argued that allocation decisions should depend upon the prospective usage rate of materials, explicit value judgments about how much such use contributes to the university's goals, and costs. (Author)

Library governing boards are faced with many administrative questions affecting services offered. This paper describes the operational research approach to the problem of allocation of funds to different departments of a university for purchase of materials. A linear programing model is suggested for solving the allocation problem. (5 references)…

Summarizes the development of a library staffing formula for Virginia academic libraries that meets resources constraints and accepted library standards. References are provided. (RAA)

Reiterates the need for a "literature size" approach to book fund allocations and presents a case for using reviews from "Choice" magazine as a useful means for determining literature size. References are listed. (Author/RAA)

A formula for distributing monograph funds was developed within the University of Cincinnati Central Libraries System. Relying on a combination of objective data and professional judgment, the method employs a size-of-literature approach to the allocations process and incorporates need and enrollment factors. Eleven sources are included. (EJS)

Describes the development of the American university and uses the political economics paradigm to describe the relationship between the academic library and its parent university. The discussion covers the anarchic nature of the university and the implications for the academic library. (35 notes with references) (CLB)

Suggests that as automated information services become more prevalent, it is essential that libraries find permanent funding to support this activity. Funding of information provided by an online search that satisfies legitimate educational and research needs with monies from print materials budget is considered. Three reactions to essay are…

Describes attempts to develop quantitative formulas for determining book fund allocations, and discusses the difficulties of this approach in a university environment characterized by scarce resources and conflicting departmental goals. A set of procedural rules intended to promote fair and equitable allocations is presented. (36 references) (CLB)

Discusses the pressure placed on research libraries to maintain a balanced collection of serials and monographs, and presents an allocation formula for serial versus monograph budgeting. The formula is based on the findings of over 50 studies that used citation analysis to determine the actual percentage of serials versus monographs used by…

Urges reevaluation of historical role of college faculty in responsibility for book selection in academic libraries. Changing conditions make practice of faculty control of book selection and book funds increasingly suspect and selection process must be seen as responsibility of library faculty, aided and assisted by teaching faculty. (34…