Percentage based allocation of an academic library materials budget

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to describe the process of determining a fund allocation process that would further collection development goals by reflecting the university curriculum and support towards different programs.Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on a library's experience in using a Percentage Based Allocation formula.Findings – The author describes the process and steps that led to the decision to use a Percentage Based Allocation formula, and the results of its implementation.Practical implications – An allocation process that is tied into other collection development activities (a collection development policy; vendor slip plan profiles) strengthens the collecting goals of a library as a whole.Originality/value – This article provides a model that other libraries can use as a template for developing their own budget allocation processes.