Changing Internal Budget Models: An Opportunity to Reconnect with Library Users

Objectives: Switching internal budget models from a centrally-determined budget to one that includes contributions from colleges provides University Libraries with an opportunity to revisit current services and support provided to community members.

Methods: A team consisting of an Acquisitions and Collection Management Librarian, the Electronic Resources Librarian, two Health Science Liaisons, and a Staff Member considered distributing well-known and recognized surveys (LibQual+, MISO) to Health Science faculty, staff, and administrators. After considering the needs of the community, however, the team decided to start by creating a local survey. After receiving IRB approval, the team distributed the survey in Mid-November to Mid-December of 2022.

Results: The team received 112 responses from Health Science administrators, faculty, and staff. Many participants have used library services for 16+ years, but most Administrators started using the library in the past six years. Many participants expressed curiosity about cost-share agreements for maintaining or subscribing to databases and e-journals. The majority of participants supported improving immediate access to full-text articles instead of relying on interlibary loan. Many participants had some experience with Open Access publishing. When determining the publishing model for future submissions, however, participants had mixed feelings.

Conclusions: The team will present their findings to University Library administration in early Spring 2023. The team will further investigate issues such as interest and support for Open Educational Resources, educating the community about publishing formats, exploring the feasibility of cost-share agreements, and improving communication between the University Libraries, Health Science administrators, faculty, and staff in the community.