Academic library users in NYS benefit from the connection between resource sharing and collection development, where interlibrary loan is important and shared collections are valued. A need existed to connect the dots between library collection development and resource sharing cooperatives, where the strength of resource sharing groups is the strength of the combined, diversified collections of its members. The session will provide an overview of the need, illustrate the proposed solution, outline the implementation and plans for the future. The first phase of the project was to create a tool to develop collections reactively, by matching patron loan requests with a corresponding library's collection strengths, as indicated by a match with the library's collection building tool, and then provide libraries with communication and reports about requests within their desired collection areas. This tool makes use of IDS Logic, a service that helps automate workflows and provides data analysis tools for libraries using ILLiad resource sharing software.
Objective: We will demonstrate the use of technology to assist in true coordinated collection development, including the software need, the development of a patron-focused consortial collection analysis tool, and how the program works.
The audience will discuss
- Solutions to barriers
- Strategies for scaling to libraries with varying needs
- Strategies for deployment at libraries with more independent departments
Attendees will learn how two librarians from different departments partnered with an established resource sharing cooperative to automate the communication of targeted suggestions for purchase at partner libraries, an innovative solution to spark interest in cooperative collection development where previously there was resistance.
