Reading #7

 

Weir, R. O. (2012).  Gathering, Evaluating and Communicating Statistical Usage Information for Electronic Resources. In Managing Electronic Resources (pp. 87-119). Chicago: ALA.

When evaluating e-resources, it is vital to take a close look at the usefulness patrons derive from them compared to the investment, such as purchasing and licensing.  The importance of usage data and statistics in making and justifying e-resource renewal decisions is substantial.  The challenges faced in gathering data, creating and processing statistics, and reaching responsible conclusions are quickly increasing.  Prior to tackling these challenges, an evaluator must be certain of what he or she wants to achieve and how he or she is willing to tackle it, deciding upon a scale of usage analysis that is meaningful and sustainable in each library’s individual context.  The library and user communities must be aware of the subtle variations that exist in the definitions of usage between vendors.  The attempts to achieve standards, and the nuances of specific data items equip the librarian to use usage data wisely.