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Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to argue that university libraries need to rethink their relationship with their parent institution. Design/methodology/approach – Personal view based on managerial experience in universities. Findings – Libraries must focus first on institutional mission and align their mission and strategy to that. Research limitations/implications – The limitations of the paper are that this paper is only based on a single point of view. Practical implications – Rethink approaches to relationships with the parent body. Originality/value – It is an original point of view which is at least worth reading to see if it has value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This paper aims to examine how libraries can create relative bargaining power and presents a methodology for analyzing collections and preparing for negotiations.Design/methodology/approach A brief literature review of the current state of collection budgets and electronic resource prices is presented prior to proposing a methodology based on business analysis frameworks and techniques.Findings Electronic resource subscription prices are increasing at a rate significantly higher than inflation, while collection budgets grow slowly, remain stagnant or decrease. Academic libraries have the ability to counteract this trend by creating relative bargaining power through organizational efforts that take advantage of size and concentration (e.g. consortia), vertical integration through practices such as library publishing and open access and through individual efforts using information. This paper proposes metrics and methodologies that librarians can use to analyze their collections, set negotiation priorities and prepare for individual resource negotiations to create relative bargaining power.Practical implications The proposed methodology enables librarians and buyers of information resources to harness the information available about their electronic resource collections to better position themselves when entering negotiations with vendors.Originality/value This paper presents metrics, some not commonly used (i.e. average annual price increase/decrease), that aid in understanding price sensitivity. Pareto analysis has been traditionally used to analyze usage, but this paper suggests using it in relation to costs and budgets for setting negotiation priorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to find out how much the purchasing and lending of individual electronic books really cost. Additionally, this paper investigates which kind of approach would be cheaper and less time-consuming for library staff as well as library patrons – purchase or short-term loan. Design/methodology/approach: This study was conducted at the Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) Library. This is the only university library in Estonia where the Ebook Central platform is adapted on a large scale. For background information, all statistical data of expenditures and average prices of purchases and short-term loans during April 2013 and December 2018 were calculated and analysed. Through a case study, the time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) method was used – all activities related to acquisition and lending of eBooks were identified, recorded in detail and analysed. More specifically, the study concerned eBooks offered in the Ebook Central platform and covered purchasing and short-term loan processes, such as receipt of order request, communication with the patron (if necessary) making a purchase or short-term loan, and feedback to the patron. Findings: While analysing the results, it appeared there are many additional activities libraries can avoid during the eBook short-term loan process compared to purchasing. As a normality in TalTech library, purchase is always followed by a cataloguing process which increases the time and cost of this process in turn. On the basis of the current study, it can be said that short-term loan is a cheaper way to use eBooks; many activities related to the short-term loan of eBooks take remarkably less staff time and financial resources than eBooks acquisition/purchasing activities. When analysing the literature reviewed as well as collected statistical data, the problem may arise when the decision-maker librarian is not experienced, professional or long-sighted enough to understand the future behaviour of the patron or the usage of the specific eBook. When the usage reaches a certain point, it becomes an indicator of continuing future usage and so it makes sense to purchase the eBook, as the library pays no further charges once an eBook is owned. Originality/value: Most studies reviewed by the author are based on the statistical data collected about expenditure, costs, usage, cost-per-use, etc. of short-term loans and purchases. While acquisitions costs, average cost per acquired item per year and cost per usage are easy to identify, it has been difficult to measure associated costs of acquisition, cataloging and circulation. The TDABC methodology seems to be one of the best tools for understanding cost behaviour and refining a cost system for university libraries. Based on the information known to the author, there is no study carried out using the TDABC methodology for analysing costs of eBook programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to apply the best practices defined by the Government Accounting Office (GAO) in its assessment of Amtrak to infrastructure improvements in electronic reserves at Columbia University Libraries. Design/methodology/approach - The paper draws on a 2004 GAO report, Intercity Passenger Rail, to set a framework for the handling of infrastructure improvement projects, and then examines a hypothetical electronic reserves project in light of that framework. Findings - This paper concludes that the best practices laid out in the GAO report, which include comprehensive planning, risk assessment, comprehensive financial management, accountability and oversight, and stakeholder involvement, are appropriate guidelines for any infrastructure improvement project. Many projects must address issues outside of infrastructure, however, and may benefit from outcomes-based goals and policy adjustments. Originality/value - The paper is of benefit in the planning of library projects that include infrastructure improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to examine possible reasons behind apparent absurdities in the library. Design/methodology/approach - The paper looks at a renovation project at Daniel Library, Charleston, South Carolina and the problems encountered because of its previous history. Findings - The paper finds that some changes are unavoidable as cost-saving measures; some might be due to the sort of person who enters library work. Research limitations/implications - The paper highlights personality types in library work and the history of library security systems. Practical implications - The paper reveals that not all planning decisions are as stupid as they look. Originality/value - The paper encourages readers to think about why they make the decisions they do. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose-This paper aims to evaluate the performance of a chat reference service implemented at an academic library in a private liberal arts college by gauging its impact on other forms of reference service in terms of usage volume, with a focus on research-related face-to-face reference questions. Design/methodology/approach - Two statistical methods are used, namely, the difference-indifferences method and a simple moving average time series analysis, to analyze both the short-term and long-term impact brought by chat reference. Findings - This study finds that the usage volume of the traditional face-to-face reference is significantly affected by chat reference in its first service year. The long-term analysis suggests that chat reference volume displays a significant declining trend (-2.06 per cent academic month) since its implementation. Yet, its usage volume relative to other reference services remains stable over time. Originality/value - The findings in this case study will be of value to libraries with similar scale and institutional features that are also interested in assessing their chat reference service. In addition, this paper is the first to apply the difference-in-differences approach in the field of library science, and the two statistical methods adopted in this case study can be readily adapted and applied to other similar volume-based library assessment projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to conclude the discussion of the leadership quality of good time management by presenting thoughts on implementing an action plan based on work goals. Design/methodology/approach - The paper establishes the need for good plan implementation and then lays out a way of dealing with problems as they arise. Finally it discusses plan assessment in general terms as either the final step in the implementation, or part of a cycle of assessment and reimplementation. Findings - The findings are that a good leader and manager must be able to carry a plan from planning through implementation and to know when and how to sustain a cycle of assessment and reimplementation. Originality/value - The value of this paper is in its suggestions for smoothing the way through plan implementation when things go awry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to continue the discussion of planning as an essential part of the leadership quality of good time management by presenting a step-by-step procedure for working out an action plan based on work goals. Design/methodology/approach - The paper discusses the importance of having an action plan to guide staff members in accomplishing work goals, sets forth the 5 key elements in an action plan, and then shows how to develop each of those elements. Findings - The paper finds that an action plan is a helpful tool to ensure continuing progress toward work goals and that there are five key elements to be developed for every action plan in pursuit of a goal. Originality/value - The value of developing an action plan is that it helps avoid many problems with projects and provides the mechanism for solving many others, so that projects designed to pursue work goals do not stall out indefinitely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of the paper is to provide a tribute to the life and work of library fund-raiser Gwen Leighty. Design/methodology/approach - The paper uses personal knowledge and references to Academic Libraries Advancement and Development Network (ALADN) and LIBDEV web sites. Findings - The paper finds that fundraising is connecting with people and the journey that each development officer must make while raising funds for their library. Originality/value - The paper presents a brief history of ALADN and the valuable contribution one person made to the cause of library fund-raising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to discuss Peter Drucker's theory of marketing in the context of strategic planning and change (innovation) in libraries. With the need for change and innovation accelerating within all types of libraries, it is increasingly important for libraries to adopt a marketing orientation, integrating a marketing plan into the overall strategic planning process. Design/methodology/approach – This paper employs case study methodology to demonstrate one library's attempt to integrate a marketing plan into the library's overall strategic planning activity, using this process to move the library towards a marketing orientation. The paper also provides a viewpoint based on the author's experience and the teachings of Peter Drucker. Findings – Libraries must adopt a marketing orientation in order to remain viable into the future. As Drucker stated, "it is the customer who determines what a business is". It is imperative libraries understand what their customer values and needs in order to develop services and provide resources to meet these needs. Originality/value – This paper examines Peter Drucker's theory of business and marketing as it applies to libraries and highlights the systems framework called the Drucker Management System, described by Joseph Maciariello in his article "Marketing and innovation in the Drucker Management System". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe how a medium-sized university library implemented activity-based costing (ABC) and other broad-based decision-making strategies to make the necessary budgetary cuts and refocus library services accordingly. Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses ABC to quantify the cost-drive of services in the library. Findings – Given the current budgetary cuts academic libraries are facing, a rational, data-driven, ABC approach can lead to constructive organizational decision making and outcomes. Originality/value – The paper demonstrates the value of activity-based costing in assessing services and addressing issues on how libraries can do more with less. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review the LibGuides website that hosts library user guides. Design/methodology/approach - This paper outlines the features and benefits of the LibGuides site, describes how it can be used as a web portal and peruses its hosted content. Findings - LibGuides is a good place to see how different libraries are incorporating Web 2.0 approaches into their library guides. Originality/value - The familiar library guide still can have a strong impact in the Web 2.0 environment and enhance a library's online presence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to show how Olin Library has maintained exceptional service to its users before, during and after a periodicals review resulting in deep subscription cuts. Design/methodology/approach - The paper takes the form of a review of activities at the Library during a time of financial restraints. Findings - Although Olin's cancellation project is not entirely completed, there is sufficient anecdotal evidence that the exceptional service has not deteriorated. At some point, soon after the cancellations are in place, a survey should be initiated to confirm this assumption about exceptional service. Practical implications - Several guidelines are presented and discussed that may be useful for other libraries faced with having to make tough periodicals decisions after being directed to cut budgets by their administrations. Originality/value - The paper provides guidelines that should greatly benefit librarians in facilitating a periodicals review and the resulting cuts during difficult economic times while still providing the service to which users are accustomed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to bring awareness to all factors that impact on the cost of an integrated library system (ILS). Design/methodology/approach - Using a total cost of ownership approach, a bigger view of all the factors impacting on cost is explored. Findings - The paper finds that many libraries focus entirely on direct costs when selecting a new ILS, rather than factoring in staff time and other long-term costs that will be associated with choosing a system. Originality/value - When the direct and indirect costs are considered, systems that have higher initial costs may be cheaper to own through their entire lifespan than other, seemingly cheaper, products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The aim of this paper is to spotlight the numerous ways librarians publish in the electronic environment. Design/methodology/approach - The paper surveys several web sites written by or about librarians or libraries. Findings - The study finds that while librarians still publish in traditional print formats, the narrow scope of many of their topics lend themselves to web-based publishing better. Originality/value - Even when an author's efforts may result in a book, the narrow focus of a topic, coupled with the stagnate nature of a printed work, are barriers to new or updated information. Web-based publications, both in tandem and independent of print, provide a dynamic environment to keep information up-to-date and current. The web also provides an opportunity to publish material that otherwise would not be published. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This purpose of this paper is to discuss a collaboration with a non-profit organization conducted as part of the Real Learning Connections project at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. The authors discuss their experiences working with a non-profit partner from outside the university and the benefits gained from collaboration.Design/methodology/approach This is a reflection based on the personal experiences of the authors as collaborators in the project.Findings Through their experience with the Real Learning Connections project, the authors found that collaborating with a non-profit organization provides a unique opportunity for library school students to learn practical skills while also providing value to the non-profit organization in the form of expertise in information services.Originality/value This piece discusses the benefits of collaboration from the perspective of both an Library and Information Studies (LIS) student and a professional librarian, as well as considering the experiences of an external non-profit organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper aims to explain the concept of Open Educational Resources (OER) and how libraries can make a good case to donors to fund these types of projects. Design/methodology/approach – The literature reveals that donors have been willing to support projects that save students money on textbooks. Course reserves have traditionally been a popular model. More recently, libraries have found funding for OER initiatives. These types of initiatives are discussed and several case studies of donors currently funding OER projects are examined. Findings – Donors, internal and external to the library and to the university, have shown an interest in funding projects that reduce textbook costs for students. They have funded course reserves in the past and have begun to fund OER projects. There are both qualitative and quantitative methods to induce donors to fund these types of projects. Practical implications – Libraries have traditionally supported the mission of access to information and for academic libraries that has sometimes included access to textbooks. Course reserves are a limited solution, whereas when an OER replaces an expensive textbook, it is a viable solution for all students. Social implications – OERs have strong social implications. Any person, whether associated with an institution of higher learning, or not, can access the information in an OER and learn the associated content. Originality/value – There is some literature on specific OER projects. This paper aims to fill a gap in the literature, specifically on how to approach donors regarding OER initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to look at staff development and its challenges in the University of Malawi Libraries. Design/methodology/approach – A case study design was used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. University Budget Estimates from 2004/2005 to 2010/2011 financial years were analysed. Data from the University of Malawi Strategic Plan 2005-2009 were examined. Interviews were conducted with college librarians in the University of Malawi Libraries. Documentary evidence was also used. Findings – Study findings indicate that staff development in the University of Malawi Libraries has emphasised on professional qualification in Library and Information Studies. However, due to financial constraints, the majority of the library staff lacks LIS professional qualifications. This study recommends that libraries should consider budgeting for continuing professional development (CPD). Practical implications – Staff development requires continuous funding and time. This study recommends the CPD approach to staff development in academic libraries. The study also recommends the introduction of an education levy to benefit skills and training needs for higher education institutions. Originality/value – There is dearth of literature on staff development in academic libraries in Malawi. This paper seeks to recommend CPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to describe books as inventory and suggest lessons which can be learned from business. Design/methodology/approach - Discusses inventory theory and how it pertains to libraries. Findings - New books get most of their use in the first two years on the shelf, as a rule. A book that is unused is "dead inventory" from the perspective of this argument. The small public library that "weeds and turns" its holdings will be highly valued by its patrons. An academic library with 90 percent of its holdings sitting idle may be revered by a core of faculty and friends; but it will likely be totally ignored by many of the net generation who read few books or print journals. This high price in idle inventory cannot continue to be borne if libraries are to thrive in a challenging and fast-changing future. Originality/value - The paper offers an alternative view that may help library adminstrators cope with the challenges they face. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the challenges and benefits of a challenge grant. Design/methodology/approach - The paper explains the University of Waterloo Library's first-hand experiences in seeking and acquiring a challenge grant from the Kresge Foundation. Findings - The challenge grant can provide libraries with a unique opportunity to raise their profiles, enlist the support of key leaders, generate excitement about their organizations' work and future plans, and raise additional funds. Originality/value - The paper provides practical suggestions that offer incentive and encouragement to seek a challenge grant due to the many benefits that accrue to a library development program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to share successful strategies to enable mid-level management academic librarians and archivists to raise major gifts from individual donors. Design/methodology/approach – The paper demonstrates the growing need for fundraising in university libraries and shows how participating in fundraising activities is an increasing expectation of librarians. Case studies are provided of successful fundraising by librarians and archivists, including their work with donors and collaboration with development professionals. The paper concludes with suggestions for maintaining donor relations. Findings – Fundraising is increasing rapidly as an expected activity of librarians but is a slowly growing part of their education. More literature is also needed on the topic. Successful fundraising is dependent on clear definition of fundraising goals, effective communicational and other interpersonal skills, continuing donor follow up and regular collaboration with development staff. Originality/value – Librarians and archivists can apply to their own fundraising needs the experiences narrated in the case studies of two successful major fundraising efforts, utilizing a team-based approach to raising major gifts from individual donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to determine the impact of the structural adjustment policies on library and information services in the University of Malawi Libraries. Design/methodology/approach – A case study methodology was adopted, and data – budget documents and various reports and technical papers – were collected. Findings – Findings show that libraries in this study were affected by the structural adjustment reforms. Budgets of the libraries increased but were affected by currency devaluations, unavailability of foreign exchange to pay for subscriptions and purchase books and this had negatively impacted on the provision of library and information services. Research limitations/implications – The study looks at implications of the structural adjustment policies in the five libraries in the University of Malawi, namely the Bunda College, Chancellor College, College of Medicine, Kamuzu College of Nursing and the Polytechnic only. However the results give a general picture of both academic and public libraries in Malawi. Practical implications – Libraries are encouraged to consider adopting UNESCO coupons to solve foreign exchange shortages for software and journal subscriptions as well as engage international publishers with local shops to circumvent paying for library purchases in foreign currency. Libraries are also encouraged to use the Malawi Library and Information Consortium (MALICO) for bargaining prices against ever escalating journal and book prices. Originality/value – The paper explores the impact of the structural adjustment polices in Malawi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to advocate for the importance of staff support for library development activities. Design/methodology/approach – This paper discusses basic fund raising principles and how staff can contribute. Findings – This article includes a success example. Originality/value – The article is based on experiences of the author and persons mentioned to produce a successful fund raising campaign. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper aims to discuss strategies for a new library employee seeking to deal with difficult people at work, when the difficult people are his/her own colleagues. It seeks to provide a description of several types of situations that may arise, and general strategies for dealing with them. Design/methodology/approach – The column is based on the author's substantial experience dealing with personnel matters in academic, public, and special libraries, including hiring for all types of positions. It is personal opinion, based on lengthy experience. Findings – The paper addresses library personnel issues. This particular installment helps new employees of libraries identify various types of issues one may have with "difficult" colleagues, and also provides various strategies and options for addressing these issues. Originality/value – The column is intended to help people to deal with all types of personnel issues overall; this specific column is intended to help librarians deal with the challenges of working with "difficult" colleagues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The rise of academic librarian professionalism coincided with the consolidation and centralization of university libraries. The resulting consolidation of the materials budget offered a revenue stream exploited by increasingly large publishers. Since publishers will always attempt to maximize their profits, the only way to restrict unlimited access to library funds is through reverting to decentralization. One such method is the creation of modules without overlapping funding. The purpose of this paper is to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – This paper relies on a wide range of academic library economic literature in an attempt to clarify the structural problem of library budgeting as well as to find means to reverse the slide into budgetary collapse. Findings – Professional librarians have over-centralized academic libraries. This has provided publishers in the past with profitable revenue streams that continue to expand even while the library's ability to maintain funding has contracted. Since publishers will not impose limits on maximizing their profits, it is up to the librarian to impose strictures on available funding. Originality/value – This paper argues that there is a causal relation between the rise of increasingly large for-profit publishing and the rise of the centralized big academic library run by library professionals. It proposes the decentralization of academic library budgets as a means to regain fiscal control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the possibilities for strategically and politically repositioning a library, despite economic hardships, for stronger relations with administration, local government, and user communities. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents a case study of Murray State University Libraries' efforts to seize the current recession to conduct capital construction planning, donor development, and political positioning for a new library facility. Additionally, the case study details some of the activities undertaken during the recession to implement a pay-per-view journal article process and value-added reference services. Findings – This case study finds that strategically repositioning a library with administration, local government, or the user community can be undertaken on either larger or smaller scales, depending on the particular circumstances in which a library operates. Originality/value – While the literature is rife with papers urging libraries and librarians to undertake strategic and political repositioning efforts during economic recessions, this paper provides a holistic case study of a library successfully doing just that. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - Managing through crises, especially economic ones, represents both peril and opportunity. Libraries of all types, whether academic, special or public, would benefit from an infusion of marketing activity in the current economic climate. Such marketing need not be resource-intensive but must be relevant to specific user populations. In order to reap the greatest rewards while expending the least effort or resources, adopting a narrative or story-based marketing message that develops and reinforces a consistent value proposition can improve patron experience by speaking in a language that resonates with them regarding services and resources that may be unclear or altogether unknown. This paper aims to discuss current trends in developing narrative or story-based marketing that focuses on customer needs and applies it to library marketing specifically. Design/methodology/approach - The paper discusses of current trends informed by current marketing scholarship and draws upon the author's prior experience in sales and marketing as a vendor for LexisNexis. Findings - Adopting a narrative-based marketing plan for libraries of all kinds, one that is based upon a specific user population's needs and expectations, can promote a notion of increased value as well as an overall sense of being indispensable and critical to those patrons. The ultimate goal is a demonstrable strengthening of support from user populations that will translate into avoidance of deeper or ongoing cuts during the current economic climate. Further benefits also include the ability to identify and target users and groups for fundraising opportunities while improving library personnel morale based upon the increased, generalized perception of the library's value within the broader organization or community. Practical implications - Based upon years of sales and marketing experience, the author takes a practical and seasoned approach to creating a marketing plan that draws upon little to no resources but is compelling in its tailored and targeted approach that uses identifiable language to reinforce and describe specific user-driven needs. Originality/value - The paper provides recommendations for developing, creating and executing a narrative or story-based marketing plan that speaks to users in the language and needs most critical to them while highlighting resources and services that may not be currently valued or even known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to describe the motivations, creation, and implementation of workflow and organizational redesigns within two academic library acquisitions departments: the University of Alabama (UA) and the University of Florida (UF). Design/methodology/approach - Both institutions utilized a combination of goal identification, staff contribution, and Blackwell's workflow consulting services to build and implement new acquisitions workflows. Findings - A comparison of the projects reveals two paths to conducting a reorganization of acquisitions in academic libraries, but with the same goal: doing more with less staff while promoting a more cost-efficient model of operations. Originality value - In evaluating these analysis projects at UA and UF, common successes that are applicable to future undertakings were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to develop and demonstrate a performance-based allocation model for university libraries in India. Design/methodology/approach - Using economic models with weighted values, a system of allocating funds to university library departments is illustrated. Findings - The paper finds that many university libraries in India struggle to continue their existing operations and services due to financial problems. Careful budgeting and most appropriate use of financial resources is essential to solve the existing financial problems. Originality/value - The model takes into account efficiency and equity considerations, which can assist the library in allocating its budget in a transparent and fair manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The key to a successful library development and fundraising program is a synergistic relationship between development professionals and librarians. The purpose of this paper is to investigate this relationship. Design/methodology/approach - The paper focuses on the partnership in achieving the library mission and its fundraising goals. Findings - The study finds that raising funds for any academic library requires commitment and leadership of the library dean and the development officer. With library faculty and staff members' input, the library development team must work together in writing a compelling case statement that has high dramatic and emotional impact on the mission of the library and the institution. Originality/value - The paper identifies three key elements that library faculty and staff can provide to support any successful library development program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to determine the current state of financial support of African university libraries, and explore non-traditional methods of providing funding for them. Design/methodology/approach - The paper takes a comparative look at the funding pattern of library and information services in Africa, particularly academic libraries, over the past two decades. Findings - The paper finds that the national governments, the main financial providers, are usually held liable for the continuing inadequacy of the financial support and are, therefore, seen as having ignored their financial responsibility toward libraries. This financial neglect negatively impacts the quality of services provided by the university libraries and, consequently, the quality of teaching and research programs at the universities served by them. Originality/value - As a possible way of breaking away from the complete and absolute reliance on government funding which has proved to be unreliable, alternative ways of funding are suggested. These include information consultancy and brokerage services and other income-generating activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - To address the issue of poor government funding for Nigerian libraries. This situation has led many librarians over the years to explore the possibility of raising additional funds from alternative sources of income. Design/methodology/approach - Explores the current levels of funding for Nigerian academic libraries and identifies some alternative funding sources. On identifying these sources, the success of alternative sources of income is presented and suggestions are made for funding in the future. Findings - Funding for libraries and information centers in Nigeria is largely through government allocations to the overseeing ministries or institutions. Government funding has been poor, requiring libraries to look for alternative sources of income in order to meet the increasingly sophisticated demand of library users for electronic information services. Several methods for generating income have been identified, explored by many libraries, and discussed in library literature, but have yielded little in the way of additional funding. Originality/value - On evaluating all the sources of income available to Nigerian academic libraries, this paper suggests that the most stable and reliable source of funds remains with allocations from the federal government. As the support from the government has not been adequate, suggestions are included on areas where the government could raise taxes to support education in general, and libraries specifically, within Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The paper aims to examine the constructs laid down by the information technology (IT) adoption theories to the cloud computing phenomena in conjunction with academic libraries of India to determine the factors responsible for the adoption of cloud computing.Design/methodology/approach Keeping the objectives into consideration, descriptive survey and constructive research method were used in the study. Library professionals engaged in the selected 28 central universities of India were chosen to participate in this study. To find the core drivers responsible for the adoption of cloud computing in academic libraries, constructs were taken from ten IT adoption theories.Findings The findings validate the fact that perceived ease of use, usefulness and ubiquitous availability of the enabling technology are strong drivers of the adoption of cloud computing technology in the libraries. Also, attitude is significantly correlated with the behavioral intention to adopt cloud computing services. High level of correlation was obtained between the cloud computing-perceived attributes and the librarian’s intention to use cloud computing technology. However, security risk is the biggest issue that has been affecting the behavioral intentions.Originality/value The study is a self-conscious attempt to fill the void and determine factors for the adoption of cloud computing in libraries. Further, it attempts to find out the preparedness of Indian academic libraries in adopting cloud computing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to highlight the impact of strategic plans in the planning of information services and systems in the University of Malawi libraries. Design/methodology/approach – A case study approach was used as the research design. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Quantitative data were collected from the budget estimates from 2004/2005 to 2009/2010 the financial years. Quantitative data were collected from the UNIMA Strategic Plans (2004/2005-2009/2010) and (2012/2013-2016/2017). Other views were collected from a forum group discussion of librarians in UNIMA on what they knew about the two strategic plans. Both qualitative and qualitative data are presented in the form of tables. Quantitative data were analysed by calculating percentage increase/decreases in the figures from the previous year. Qualitative data were analysed thematically Findings – The strategic plans have guided the planning, budgeting and financing of UNIMA, including the planning of library services and systems. However, despite the formulation of the strategic plans, political, economic, social, internal and external forces have negatively impacted the implementation of the plans. The strategic plans have also failed to represent the wishes of the libraries as an appropriate environmental scan for the UNIMA libraries was not taken into account. Originality/value – Although planning has been a popular topic in business circles, little is known about the planning that occurs in libraries in developing countries. This study seeks to bridge the information gap on the planning for information resources in the University of Malawi libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to look at the impact of the Government subvention to the University of Malawi (UNIMA) from 2004 to 2009 financial years on its libraries and assess levels of fund raising initiatives in the libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The study adopted a case study approach. Interviews were conducted with five college librarians in the University of Malawi libraries. University budget estimates from 2004/2005 to 2009/2010 financial years were used to assess the amount of income generated by the libraries. Data are presented in the form of tables and analysed by calculating percentage increases and decreases. Findings – UNIMA as a whole has done extremely well in generating income equivalent to subvention. On the other hand, UNIMA libraries are on the receiving end. From 2004/2005 to 2007/2008 financial years, no income was captured in the university budgets from the libraries. In the 2008/2009 and 2009/2010 financial years, UNIMA libraries realised 7.2 per cent and 5.4 per cent of the income. This means UNIMA libraries were heavily dependent on government subvention for their operations. Fundraising is not emphasised despite being an appropriate and alternative source of funding. Practical implications – The study recommends that college librarians should consider diversifying income-generating activities and consider fund raising activities as well. Heavy reliance on government subvention is not sustainable. Libraries should seriously consider fundraising. Originality/value – There is an information gap on fund raising activities in UNIMA libraries. This information bridges the gap on sources of income for UNIMA libraries and provides an assessment of fund raising initiatives taken by UNIMA libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to look at adequacy or inadequacy of budgets for University of Malawi Libraries (UML) from financial years 2004 to 2009. Design/methodology/approach – A case study design was used to collect quantitative data. University budget estimate from 2003/2004 to 2009/2010 financial years were used. Findings – The results of the study show that of five constituent colleges of the University of Malawi, four (80 per cent) of their college libraries are inadequately funded below 6 per cent. The average funding as a percentage of the total college funding for the five UML in the six-year financial period from 2004 to 2010 are as follows: Bunda College Library 2.7 per cent; Chancellor College Library 3.72 per cent; College of Medicine Library 3.52 per cent; Kamuzu College of Nursing Library 6.27 per cent; and the Polytechnic Library 3.43 per cent. Only Kamuzu College of Nursing Library received a minimum average of 6 per cent of the total college funding. Practical implications – The study recommends that college librarians should lobby for increased budgets for UML. College librarians should also consider income-generating activities as a means to supplement funding through government subvention. Originality/value – There is very little researched information on inadequacy or adequacy of budgeting and funding on UML. This research adds some information on UML budgeting and financing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to consider the potential utility for higher educational institutions, and in particular libraries, of the balanced scorecard (BSC) performance measurement tool, originally developed by Kaplan and Norton for use in businesses and since adapted for the public and non-profit sectors. Design/methodology/approach – The relevant literature was reviewed to ascertain key aspects and functionalities of the BSC framework, survey implementations and determine perceptions of the system's effectiveness and weaknesses, and – while the BSC has as yet been put into practice only infrequently in libraries – treat its appropriateness for information service. Findings – The BSC supplements financial accounting with non-financial leading indicators to link performance drivers and outcome measures in cause and effect relationships that can predict future performance and drive a single organizational strategy. Also intended as a straightforward reporting "dashboard" revealing whether improvements in one area have been at the expense of another, the BSC is considered more effective as an aid in forecasting the overall health of an organization than traditional accounting-based models. It provides a capacity to monitor obligations to stakeholders and to produce transparent and reliable financial information, and the resulting internal control environment can promote integrity and ethical values. Originality/value – Academic libraries may find the BSC a useful approach in determining service value, in demonstrating fiscal responsibility, and – through metrics focused on organizational goals and strategy – in validating their role, as knowledge-based and networked environments, in the delivery of a quality educational product to their customers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - Like most negotiators, librarians often have the best interests of their institution and constituents in mind when haggling with vendors. Although noble, this mindset frequently leads to acrimony, distrust between parties and an unsatisfactory contract or weak relationship. This paper aims to provide exemplars of non-intuitive negotiating strategies that may strengthen bargaining power and relieve adversarial interactions. Design/methodology/approach - The paper elaborates on a six-month contract negotiation with a courier service meant to reduce library-shipping costs. Three basic strategies were used, and they are presented as exceptional methods for enhancing the bargaining environment. Findings - Mitigating expenditures wherever possible, but especially within a weakened economy, is often a priority for libraries. By using elementary and good faith bargaining methods when negotiating with vendors, librarians may not only meet their goals but surpass them. Originality/value - The paper provides readers with three basic negotiating strategies within the framework of an actual contract negotiation. These strategies are discussed as best practices applicable to any contractual bargaining environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — To investigate recent trends in funding and collection development in university libraries in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach — The paper is based on primary data collected from four university libraries in Kenya as well as secondary literature relating to university libraries in Kenya. Findings — This paper concludes that funding of university library services in Kenya is inadequate. Due to diminished governmental fund allocations for these institutions, their library collection development levels have deteriorated and are characterized by low monographic purchases and limited journal subscriptions. This decline is at odds with rapidly expanding student enrolment levels. Private universities experience these problems too, but to a lesser extent. Originality/value — The paper recommends that to ensure that university libraries continue to provide adequate information services supporting teaching, learning and research, the adoption of a strategic plan in all areas of library management, and especially in funding and collection development, is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The purpose of this paper is to examine how finances in an academic library might differ from household finances; in particular, how a library budget might be unbalanced throughout a fiscal year. Design/methodology/approach -- The author compares typical library resources to representative groceries purchased for a home and assess the relative nutritional value of each. Findings -- The author concludes that using a library-style budget is likely to result in a less interesting diet, but such a budget is, with planning, adequate to sustain a minimum level of health. In future columns the author plans to examine ways a library budget might be altered in order to move beyond adequacy to higher performance levels. Originality/value -- The approach should be worthy of note for administrators who struggle with the "use it or lose it" philosophy common in libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the assessment of the Data Liberation Initiative (DLI), a data consortium, from the perspective of the program's functionality and fulfilment of stakeholder objectives. Two models are described which help assess how well the program succeeded in doing what it was intended to do, and which provide a measure of the program's impact. This study presents correlational evidence between the volume of research outcomes and the increased access to National Population Health Survey data through the DLI. It is hoped that some of the experiences in this evaluation of DLI might be beneficial in assessing other non-standard programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Publication No. 49 of the Association of College and Research Libraries entitled Restructuring Academic Libraries: Organizational Development in the Wake of Technological Change states "the swift advance of computer networking has disrupted print-age organizational structures in higher education and invaded the academic library's traditional autonomy. Such fundamental change impels libraries to develop new institutional arrangements to support digital-based research and curricular programs". With this in mind, this paper examines the Meriam Library at California State University, Chico, using the four ranges of restructuring outcomes of boundary spanning, as described in the publication, as benchmarks to measure and assess what opportunities and achievements in organizational changes have occurred over the last decade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The California State University System (CSU) utilizes a cooperative buying program to provide a wide range of electronic resources at the lowest negotiable prices. The System's Electronic Access to Information Committee (EAR) surveys campus needs, identifies and reviews resources, and makes recommendations for purchase. The CSU Software and Electronic Information Resources Office arranges product demonstrations and negotiates contracts. This paper reviews the history and operations of EAR and SEIR, the Principles for the Acquisition of Electronic Information Resources, and the Criteria and Recommendations for an Initial Core Collection. The advantages, disadvantages, and future of this approach will also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- This paper aims to address how utilizing positive psychology can be beneficial when academic libraries are faced with obstacles and challenges. Design/methodology/approach -- Opinion piece. Findings -- Personal observations. Originality/value -- Personal opinion and experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents several developments related to American Library Association (ALA). A salary survey conducted by the ALA Office for Research and Statistics (ORS) showed that salaries of librarians increased 2.3 percent overall. Salaries were usually highest in large public or university libraries and lowest in medium-sized public libraries or two-year college libraries. For all positions, salaries are usually highest in the North Atlantic and West or Southwest regions and lowest in the Southeast. Although the patterns do vary from year to year, salaries in the Southeast have consistently been at the bottom. Some of the upcoming workshops presented by the Library and Administration Association (LAMA) are--"Risk Analysis for Libraries," will be held on June 26. Risk analysis is required to minimize the impact of both monetary and social costs. This will include personnel, building, and security analysis. "A Gift Is More Than Just a Gift: Managing In-Kind Gifts," will be held on June 28. In this, a keynote speaker will give a 30-minute overview of in-kind gifts.

Purpose – The purpose of this column is to address how one academic library is surviving budgets cuts with assistance from a Friends group. Design/methodology/approach – This is a viewpoint column Findings – If your library is facing a substantial budget cut this year, approaching your Friends group for assistance is a worthwhile endeavor. Originality/value – The paper describes how a strong connection of the Scarborough Society with the Shepherd University Foundation has created a unique and successful Friends group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to discuss the part that managing skill sets plays in practicing the performance standard of managing people effectively. Design/methodology/approach - The approach is to differentiate between organizing staff positions around job functions and organizing staff positions around the skills that individuals bring to the positions. Findings - The findings are that individuals are more productive when they have the chance to use their unique skill sets rather than having to do tasks for which they have little or no skills simply because those tasks are part of a larger function. Originality/value - The value is in learning how to advance organizational goals through effective use of employee skill sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]