Using a Workflow to Reduce Database Costs without Affecting Collection Needs

Authors

  • Karen Sheldon Delaware Valley University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/palrap.2018.173

Abstract

A small university with limited staff and resources created a workflow to help streamline decision making during renewal of subject databases. A literature review of common assessment methods found cost per use, content overlap analysis, and relevance to the curriculum to be the most common metrics. However, each individually provided an incomplete portrait of usage. A flowchart documented the decision process and incorporated multiple metrics. Implementing this workflow reduced the library’s materials budget by 3% for the following fiscal year. This process may be implemented at other libraries to lower overall budget spending, while still providing content aligned with the local curriculum.

Author Biography

Karen Sheldon, Delaware Valley University

Electronic and Instructional Services Librarian

Downloads

Published

2018-05-22

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 1 (2018)

Section

Practice

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Revised 7/21/2020. Revision Description: Updated to APA 7th style.