Ongoing evaluation is an essential component of maintaining a healthy library collection. The collection must change to reflect the current research, teaching and learning needs of IU Indianapolis. To ensure the most efficient use of library funding, the Library evaluates all subscriptions based upon a combination of metrics including cost-per-use (CPU), uniqueness of content, overlap with other resources, use within classroom instruction and/or faculty research, and whether a resource meets the WCAG 2.1 accessibility guidelines. We collect use data in various ways (e.g., SUSHI protocol, direct from publisher, and shelf use). When analyzing effectiveness of a resource the Library evaluates these factors year-over-year, as well as longitudinally over three- and five-year periods to ensure changes are in fact trends and not an anomaly of low use.
Current serial subscriptions are reviewed annually by the Collection Working Group (CWG) for continued appropriateness to the Library’s Mission and Strategic Priorities. The CWG also relies on the expertise and relationships of subject librarians to ensure the currency and relevance of the resources in their subject area. Subject librarians provide context about what gaps may be filled and what content overlaps exist, enabling University Library to make data-informed decisions when purchasing, subscribing, renewing, and cancelling different materials, ensuring the library meets current user needs while responsibly maintaining the collection budget. Subject librarians are the primary point of contact to seek feedback from instructors and researchers in their responsible subject areas.
Subject librarians may withdraw materials which they determine no longer support the goals of the collection. Such identification occurs during the normal course of a subject librarian’s work. Large-scale withdrawal projects will be conducted using an evidence-based approach applied across the entire general collection. Items marked for retention as part of shared collections initiatives must not be withdrawn.
Evaluation is critical when running trials for potential new resources. See the new Database Trial Policy for more information. Database trials are a collaborative effort between the Collection Services team and Educational Services (subject librarians).