Analysis of Compliance of Hospital Libraries with the Medical Library Association Staffing Standard: Examination of the Current State of the Industry and Reconsideration of the Standard

Abstract

This study examines staffing levels in U.S. hospital libraries in relation to the benchmark of Standards for Hospital Libraries set forth by the Medical Library Association (MLA). The tested hypothesis is that actual staffing levels among surveyed libraries do not vary in a statistically significant manner from the MLA benchmark. One-sample t test and distribution analyses comparing actual and benchmarked library staffing levels under the current standard indicate staffing levels vary significantly from the established MLA standard. The scope and predominance of the negative variance suggest either profoundly substandard staffing levels in libraries, or an imprecise formulation of the benchmark. A subanalysis considers the broad applicability of MLA's benchmarking formula. An alternative library staffing benchmark that may offer a more equitable gauge of staffing need is modeled.

KEYWORDS:

• benchmarks
• library staffing
• library standards
• statistical analysis