Collection Management and Development Guide – serie

Applicable for all types of libraries. Needs assessment can be defined as the process of using one or more techniques to collect and analyze data on library users or potential users. The guide includes the methodology and techniques for carrying out needs assessment projects, ranging from short-term assessments to long-term research or comprehensive collection assessments. Various types of data, techniques, and methodology are described, as are associated pointers and pitfalls.

Every library, regardless of size or type, allocates funds for information resources. The process of creating the budget, while varying considerably from one institution to another, has common components. Allocating the information resources budget has become more complex as technology has evolved and as consortial relationships have developed. Guide to the Management of the Information Resources Budget assists librarians making information resources budget allocations and outlines general principles for the management of those allocations. It describes the character and function of the budget document, states allocation principles, presents an array of considerations and options for application to the local budget allocation process, and enumerates sources of information helpful to that process. Not only does this guide examine the steps in the development of the budget, but it also assists in planning for the timely and effective expenditure of funds.