Abstract
Previous formulas in the library literature for interdepartmental allocation of the library materials budget have been based on more or less intuitive specifications and solutions of the allocation problem. In contrast, this paper presents a formal, mathematically expressed hypothesis concerning the effect of library spending by department on patron welfare. It then derives a formula as the solution to the problem of maximizing patron welfare subject to the budget constraint that the sum of the allocations to the departments equals the total fund available. According to the formula, the appropriate share of each department depends on its number of users, its cost of literature, and on the values of two parameters: the utility function parameter and the selectivity function parameter. Measurement problems are discussed, and finally an example of application is given using data from Western Illinois University.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
