Developing a Weighted Library Allocation Formula

In this preconference workshop the presenters taught attendees how to create a spreadsheet‐based library collection development allocation formula to help each better manage their respective library’s limited collection development resources. The presenters demonstrated and led participants through the process of creating individualized Excelbased formulas that can be scaled to utilize the criteria relevant to their specific library and institution. Key to the success of this formula is the use of weights applied to each factor used in the formula. Potential factors include the number of students majoring in a degree program, graduate program enrollment, departmental credit hour production, and the average costs of books and journals in a discipline. By carefully assigning weights to each factor, the output of the formula results in a more equitable allocation of funds to each subject area