A performance index approach to library collection

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the new application of a performance index (p‐index), extending its use to libraries for measuring and evaluating library circulation statistics in terms of quality and quantity of library books usage by subjects.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses NISCAIR library circulation data and computes p‐index as well as h‐index for comparing usage in different subjects.FindingsThe results indicate that a two dimensional map of quality vs quantity of transactions can be used for better understanding and evaluation of library usage.Research limitations/implicationsThe h‐ and p‐indices and the quality‐quantity maps can be used as a benchmark for monitoring library performance in addition to finding out high value areas in the library collection, high value users, and high value books.Practical implicationsThe paper is able to supplement the insights normally available from routine statistical analysis of circulation data.Originality/valueThis study may help in providing knowledge/insights in building up collections.

Analysis of the Russian, Eastern European, and Eurasian Studies Collection at Miami University Libraries

“…9 While all literature was useful in the project, it became clear that most studies emphasize complex and innovative methodology using a Hirsch index, 10 a performance index, 11 or specially designed tools. 12 The goal of the collection analysis project at Miami University was to develop a simple way for selectors to evaluate usage statistics, which would not require specialized skills beyond knowledge of Microsoft Excel and which would provide a relatively quick and accurate snapshot of different parts of the collection.…”

The Effects of Logistic Management on Enterprise Performance: A Case of Gas Depot Atem in Yaounde Cameroon

“…In order to understand firm performance it was prudent to first understand what performance measurement was all about since it was through performance measurement that firm performance could be realized. According to [18], Performance measurement is a crucial criterion for evaluating the competence and achievement of an organization. [22] defined performance measurement as -the process of quantifying action, where measurement is the process of quantification and action leads to performanceǁ.…”