How do you do it?  (Using barcodes? scanners? etc.)

We keep continuous use statistics.  Our students have to do "pick ups" all
day long, so we have them scan in what they pick up before shelving.  We
have Innovative, and have set up item records for all current and mf
titles.  The bound volumes automatically have item records.  We have a
rolodex containing barcodes for each current/mf title that is then scanned
for each item picked up.
 For the bound, we just scan the barcode on the item.

Do you collect data for each title for each year, or by spans of years (e.g.
1980-1990)?  If so, which spans of years do you use, and why?

We collect data for each year, June 1-May 31.  We than put the use data
into an allocation formula that distributes the book budget among the
academic depts. The data is also used to determine if titles should be
kept or whatnot.  We keep statistics separately for each medium so we can
see which format is being used most.  We've changed alot of retention
periods because the mf or bound was not being used.  We now keep about 1/3
of the current titles on the shelves for 2-5 years instead of converting
them to mf or binding.

What are the pros and cons of your automated method?

Up until 1996, we kept the statistics manually like you do now.  Automate
as soon as possible!  It's alot easier, and the software allows you to
sum, sort, and all other possibilities.  We really haven't had any
problems with the automation.

Feel free to contact me personally.

Dana Belcher, Periodicals/Acquisitions Librarian
East Central University
Linscheid Library
200 S. Stadium Drive
Ada, OK 74820
580-310-5564
<dbelcher@MAILCLERK.ECOK.EDU>