Skip to Main Content
Research Guides Databases A-Z Library Catalog Ask a Librarian Library Home Page SUNY New Paltz

Planning and Assessment

Assessment Story: Database trials feedback form

The library's Electronic Resources Group (ERG) uses COUNTER and other statistics to periodically assess usage and overall value of its electronic databases.   These statistics are collected in annular reports ands are examined annually by the group.

The ERG is composed of librarians and library administrators from across the library, who often speak directly with faculty about their experiences with subscription databases and will have used blogs and email to collect feedback on existing and prospective databases, like the ones it trials annually.

In 2016, ERG implemented the database trial feedback survey and received 18 completed surveys with robust feedback for the Loeb Digital Classic Library trial.   This information informed the library's decision to purchase the database.

 

 

Assessment Story: Using Circulation data to determine books for repair, replacement or withdrawal

The Collection Development office uses circulation data to coordinate the continuous review of the print book collection.
The library's Aleph system generates reports of items that have not circulated in 10 years.  Those items are evaluated for de-selection and/or replacement with new content. The circulation record is only one criterion for decision making, but it is the criteria that brings the item to review.
Items that enjoy heavy circulation typically endure wear and tear.   Aleph's usage statistics are used to identify potentially worn items; staff  are also encouraged to locate worn materials in the collection,  If the usage is high, a decision is made to add a second copy or to add additional new books on the same topic.
The collection development office evaluated just over 3600 books in 2017.
 
Some of the items reviewed were submitted to the catalogers for metadata enhancement.  These enhancements include adding additional subject tags, tables of content data, and other information to help library patrons find discover materials in the catalog.   In FY 2016-17, 50 OCLC records were downloaded from OCLC to Aleph for metadata enhancement. [data used to improve internal processes and meet annual and long-term goals]