Use of Data in Collections Work: An Exploratory Survey

Abstract

As libraries seek to demonstrate the value of the services and collections they provide, gathering and using data assume a central role. Librarians on collections-related Listservs were invited to participate in a survey in order to identify data practices specifically related to collections. More than 200 librarians responded. The survey explored the ways collections data are being used as well as organizational practices and attitudes that might serve to either encourage or discourage the use of data, including training, librarian evaluations, and presence of data assessment components in job descriptions.

KEYWORDS:

• data practices
• collection assessment
• subject librarians
• academic libraries
• librarians survey