Argues that librarians need to be concerned with cost analysis of library functions and services because, in the allocation of resources, decision makers will favor library managers who demonstrate understanding of the relationships between costs and productive outputs. Factors that should be included in a reliable scheme for cost accounting 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)

This paper looks at how the goals for school library media programs are aligned with the goals of education in general and what this alignment means in terms of the allocation of resources. Citing the 1983 report, "A Nation at Risk," it argues that there may be a disparity between the actual value of the school library media program and…

The first article summarizes the findings of four studies which used unobtrusive testing techniques to evaluate library reference services. The validity of this testing method and the conclusions reached are discussed, and suggestions are made for improving reference services in five related articles. (CLB)

Considers organizational structures of academic libraries through writings of organizational theorists and related work by librarians and develops an organizational model based on this review. The model comprises a modified professional bureaucratic structure; flexible resource allocation; use of management information systems; export of…

There is mounting concern about the adequacy of both preparatory and continuing professional education of academic librarians. The staff development cost model presented identifies cost categories, provides a method to break down costs per participant, and outlines a technique to compare the cost-effectiveness of different training methods. (CLB)

Reviews arguments for and against fees for online services and describes a supply side model in which the library absorbs the costs of online searching. The implementation of this policy at an academic library is evaluated and detailed guidelines for implementing such a policy are provided. (CLB)

Explores both the allocation of resources to documents departments in academic libraries and the wide variation in local levels of support. Ways in which documents librarians may change levels of support through sources within and beyond their libraries are suggested. (CLB)

This document summarizes the results of a 1994 survey regarding the use of document suppliers by 90 ARL (Association of Research Libraries) members. A document supplier was defined as "a company or service that supplies documents for a fee." Document suppliers are increasingly used by research libraries as cost-effective solutions to the…

While the rapid evolution of electronic technology has made possible stunning advances in access to information, the price of adopting new systems and formats has forced major changes in how libraries allocate their resources. The 31st symposium of the graduate alumni and faculty of Rutgers School of Communication, Information and Library Studies…

A state-wide survey was undertaken in 1988-1989 to determine the status of the library media programs in South Carolina's public schools. The first of two phases of the study involved the compilation of statistical data reported to the State Department of Education by building level administrators on the Basic Educational Data System (BEDS) for…