We are trying to conduct a journals pruning exercise using objective
criteria of use, rather than the normal "oh nobody uses that title and
it's so expensive" gut reactions.

So far we have been able to show use by looking at the issue slips for
journals and by checking the requests from staff to have articles
photocopied from journals. Of couse this takes no account of self-service
photocopying and consultation.

I have been canvassing UK libraries for any survey methods they have used
and the replies so far indicate that slips attached to journals for the
initials of any readers is the most popular way of recording use. Other
methods involve noting titles that they have to reshelve and studying
the citations made by their academics in their own journal articles.

I wanted to widen the circulation of my enquiries which is why I am posting
this message on SERIALST. This is the first time I've posted a message and
it may well be that I am treading a well worn path. If so please tell me
and if possible refer me to previous discussions.

I would be most grateful for any advice and tips on how to assess the use
made of my expensive and threatened science & technology titles.

Many thanks,

Iain Noble
Teesside Polytechnic Library
UK
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Iain Noble                                   |
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