Library collection weeding criteria based upon unequal distribution of demand require that distribution remain stable over time. A mathematical expression is derived that tests that stability. Verification is not inordinately time consuming and is facilitated by the use of automated circulation systems. (Author/RAA)

Develops an empirical model for predicting the size of an information store necessary to satisfy specified levels of demand. A method for selecting items for retirement with the least adverse impact on the store is suggested. Three tables, three figures, and a 10-item reference list are included. (Author/JL)

Columbia-Greene Community College (Hudson, New York) takes a yearly 10% statistical sample of its entire circulating collection, noting the call number, acquisition year, and circulation record of each book, in order to determine the pattern of book use over the preceding 2.5 years, and to facilitate the development of an acquisition pattern that…

Uses bibliometric techniques in the development of a model of the distribution of demand for items in an information store. The hypothesis of hyperbolic distribution and an index of differential demand are also discussed. One table, two figures, and a 10-item reference list accompany the text. (Author/JL)

Examines the distribution of use of items in a large information store and suggests that a simple exponential model describes the process of obsolescence more precisely. Three tables, four figures, and a 17-item reference list are included. (Author/JL)

Two aspects to be considered in designing a storage system for library materials are: the fraction of the collection which is to be stored; and the criteria to be used for selecting materials for storage. This study demonstrates that for a given selection criterion least-cost storage quantities can be assessed by balancing the large circulation…

Explains some observed library circulation frequency distributions through use of a simple stochastic model for the borrowing of books from a library collection. Parameters of the model are described and the model is applied to circulation data from three academic libraries. (Author/SW)

THE PROBLEM OF PREDICTING THE PATTERNS OF USE OF LIBRARY MATERIALS IN ORDER TO DECIDE WHICH MONOGRAPHS SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM A MAIN COLLECTION AND PLACED IN STORAGE IS STUDIED IN THIS REPORT. SPECIFICALLY, THE STUDY EXAMINES PREVIOUSLY DEVELOPED MATHEMATICAL MODELS AND DEVELOPS NEW MATHEMATICAL MODELS AND STATISTICAL TECHNIQUES FOR STUDYING THE…

This study examines whether a recommended list of videos and a video display in a community college library cause the circulation of these items to increase, as previous research has shown. During a 10-week pretest period, the circulation of a sample of the videos in the 800s section of the Educational Resources Center at the Columbus State…

Describes a two-part book circulation use study conducted to find a simple inexpensive and effective method of weeding a public library branch collection, to determine whether weeding increases circulation, and to compare results with Slote's results. Seven tables, one appendix, and 32 references are provided. (RBF)

Argues that evaluating a library's collection is not an acceptable substitute for evaluating the collection development process and its developers. With increasing materials costs, overselection can be much more serious than underselection. Several useful methods for evaluating collection development incorporate statistics regarding proportional…

An investigation of the interlibrary loan (ILL) borrowing patterns of six academic libraries and one large urban library--all members of the Colorado Alliance of Research Libraries (CARL)--analyzed data on transactions carried out through the OCLC ILL system during the 3 month period of March through May of 1988. The data and analyses focused on…

The quality and success of library services to users at the City of Brampton Public Library and Art Gallery, Ontario, Canada, were investigated through a series of questionnaires, statistical data analyses, and comparisons with past use studies of this and other public libraries. The study utilized the operational methodology outlined by Altman in…

Tests assumption of Markovity in library circulation data using data obtained from Ohio State University Libraries (1975-78) and Rodda's "An Analysis System for Statistical Analysis of Markov Chains" as test instrument. Implications of Markov properties, constraints of data, and testing are discussed. Explanation of transition frequency…

Describes a study partially replicating the 1978 University of Pittsburgh library materials study. Findings presented include the five-year circulation patterns of DePauw University books sampled compared with the University of Pittsburgh's patterns, and circulation of books given to and purchased by DePauw University. Provided are four tables and…