At Appalachian State University, we began a use study of periodicals
in Sept. 1992. After one semester, it appears that our methodology is
working satisfactorily.

   Before reshelving (users are instructed not to reshelve), journal
volumes and issues are checked against a periodicals title list and
hash marks are recorded for each physical piece. At the end of each month
the hash marks are totalled and the numbers are input into a database.

   We plan to continue this study for at least a year, and the data
will be considered along with other factors in an ongoing collection
analysis project.

   One of our biggest challenges was just trying to get started. We
researched, pondered, discussed, and investigated several methods before
implementing the current project. A big concern was staff time and
how to handle busy periods of the semester. We began by assigning a
full-time paraprofessional staff member to overseeing the study. This
worked well for launching the study. Now that we are more comfortable
with the methodology, we plan to use student assistants more for the
collection and input of data.

   While no method is perfect, we think we can obtain some useful
information from this effort. Also, it has allowed people from
different parts of the library to work together in new ways.

   It is encouraging to read about the variety of methods employed by
different institutions. If anyone wishes more detailed information
about our use study, please contact me.

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Eleanor I. Cook                   704-262-2786 (wrk)
Serials Librarian                 704-262-3001 (fax)
Belk Library
Appalachian State University     cookei@appstate             (Bitnet)
Boone, NC 28608                  cookei@conrad.appstate.edu  (Internet)
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