Showing papers in "The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances in 2002"

Digital rights management: implications for libraries

Abstract: Since digital content can be perfectly replicated and distributed infinitely, publishers and other content originators are employing DRM and persistent protection to prevent the abuse of their intellectual property. However, locking the content and controlling operations on the content have presented interesting challenges in supporting fair use in the digital world. Not only are libraries purchasing intellectual property, but they are also producing and maintaining it. Libraries are publishers. Presents the core components of DRM and the value the technology presents for libraries, and also scenarios to demonstrate where DRM may have improved content delivery to libraries, where library operations may be improved by the use of DRM, and offers critical information against which to ask publishers and content aggregators about their use of DRM with the content they sell to libraries.

Science resources: does the Internet make them cheaper, better?

Abstract: Over the past several years the price of science, technical and medicine (STM) materials has been increasing steadily at a rate unimaginable and unexplainable in economical terms. Over the same period of time, there has been a technological revolution that would change the way libraries deliver their services forever. The Internet and, subsequently, the Web have become the greatest delivery options available to publishing. Hence, one of the suggested solutions to the serials crisis was to eliminate the typesetting, printing and distribution costs of journals with the hope that that would make them cheaper, speed up the distribution process and give end‐users more control. This paper focuses on whether the Internet has made STM resources cheaper or better. In order to gather information, a survey and interviews of science librarians in academic institutions and STM publishers and vendors were conducted.

Recruiting quality business librarians in a shrinking labor market

Abstract: The library field is projected to grow in the next decade, albeit modestly, so the need for professionals will rise. Combined with large‐scale retirements predicted to begin in 2010, the result may be a shortfall of library professionals. Although no concrete evidence exists to substantiate a claim that this trend may be more pronounced for subject specialists, such as business librarians, the authors of this article were motivated to conduct their research by the apparent shortage of business librarians reported by their colleagues within the American Library Association, specifically in the Reference and User Services Association’s (RUSA) Business Reference and Resources Section (BRARS). This article reports on a survey of job postings from March 2000‐March 2001 and assesses employer satisfaction with the labor market for business librarians and information professionals.

Cost benefit analysis: a summary of the methodology

Abstract: This paper summarizes the cost‐benefit analysis (CBA) approach to estimating the dollar value of services offered by public libraries. The rationale behind a CBS approach is discussed and a methodology is proposed for a quicker, cheaper CBA applicable to mid‐size and smaller libraries.

Library fee‐based information services: financial considerations

Abstract: Fee‐based services in libraries offer research and document delivery services to non‐primary clientele on a cost‐recovery basis. Highlights services at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Rice University and Purdue University. Explores the major financial considerations involved in starting a new fee‐based service, including planning, staffing, pricing and marketing. Relates several special opportunities to which the libraries could not have responded without having had an existing fee‐based service with experienced staff in place. Also examines Internet opportunities.

Leveraging our assets: the academic library and campus leadership

Abstract: In the competition for resources, academic libraries possess more assets than they know. These include a still central role in access to published academic knowledge; a cadre of professionals experienced in managing change and in developing assessment instruments that match resources with outcomes; an ethos and record of success in collaborative projects; and significant development potential and successes. These assets can be leveraged to enhance funding as well as the role of librarians in campus leadership. The author, a library director for more than a decade, bases his observations in part on a 16‐month appointment as interim assistant vice‐chancellor for administration at a mid‐sized public university.

The essentials of financial strength through sound lobbying fundamentals

Abstract: Successfully managing libraries begins by securing funding and favorable library policies. Whether one reports to a city council, a university board, or a corporate division, securing budget funds – and, for that matter, most other operational resources – is a process of justification, persuasion and commitment. Knowledge of lobbying techniques is useful in promoting library needs to decision makers. Three areas related to lobbying can be of benefit to library managers. These areas are: positioning oneself to be an effective lobbyist; making the most out of the “lobbying meeting”; and the lobbying arena.

Do librarians dream of electronic serials? A beginner’s guide to format selection

Abstract: In this beginner’s guide, the authors review considerations for format selection decisions. There is no one‐size‐fits‐all solution when it comes to how libraries make format choices. Ultimately, these decisions will vary depending on a library’s specific needs as outlined by its mission statement and collection development policy. Factors such as content, functionality, longevity, users, and cost play important roles in determining the most suitable option.

Partnerships and promises: the history and future of library and US Government information

Abstract: Librarians involved with the US Federal Depository Library system need to seriously reconsider their roles and economic arguments, as more federal agencies bypass the Government Printing Office and publish government information directly through the World Wide Web. If “ownership” and “collections” were the watchwords under the earlier model, “service” and “partnerships” will dominate the practice of government information librarians in the next century.

Private funding for capital projects

Abstract: Over the past few years, librarians have come to the realization that it is essential to have private funding to augment public resources for major capital projects. Use of private and public funds can have beneficial effects for the library. The funds can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the project and to help provide for future library programs and services.

Valuing your public library: the experience of the Barrie Public Library, Ontario, Canada

Abstract: The Barrie Public Library undertook a study to document its social and economic contributions to the local community. We used The Library’s Contribution to Your Community – a manual developed by Southern Ontario Library Service. This article describes our experience with the manual, why and how we did the study, our key findings and the results of the work.

A case study of successful library fund‐raising: the right mix of deliberate strategy, “opportunity knocks” and “Lady Luck”

Abstract: In November 1998, the new Fondren Library Center (FLC) was dedicated at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas. This building, connecting the main Fondren Library with the Science and Engineering Library (SEL), was the first building to be completed in SMU’s five year capital campaign “The campaign for SMU: a time to lead”, 1997‐2002. Was this seminal event a reflection of the university’s commitment to its library system; a tribute to donor generosity; the result of intense lobbying on the part of faculty and library staff; a happy accident; or some combination of all of the above? The article hopes to show that, like much fund‐raising, the latter was the case.

Plain English collection budgets: a collection plan for public libraries

Abstract: The public library of Des Moines has addressed problems of a neglected materials collection and inadequate materials budget through a new and innovative collection plan based on quantifiable local standards. The library measures median collection age, and shelf availability of recently circulated items. The collection plan is based on a standard size determined for each library collection. Items added each year equal the number of items withdrawn. Collection budgets are calculated using formulas that will provide a five‐year median age and at least 50 per cent availability in all types of materials. The library has succeeded in reducing the median age from 16 to eight years and has achieved 50 per cent availability in almost all collection areas.

ALADN: the Academic Library Advancement and Development Network

Abstract: Fund‐raising is becoming an integral part of contemporary library management, particularly for academic and research libraries. Libraries are establishing or strengthening development operations and seeking information on best practices in fund‐raising. In response to this growing priority of library directors and deans, and to meet demand for a forum in which development staff can share ideas and successes with each other, the Academic Library Advancement and Development Network (ALADN) was formed in 1996. This article highlights: the origins and purpose of ALADN; prime benefits of ALADN to the profession of library development; and a summary of the 2001 ALADN Conference in Washington, DC.