Preparing for renovation: Estimating shelf occupancy to inform decision making regarding the redevelopment of library space

Abstract

University Library at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis is in the process of repurposing space currently occupied by the print collection. To prepare for further reallocation of library space, reliable estimates of stacks space were needed. Two members of the Access Services Team applied systematic random sampling to estimate existing -- and anticipated -- empty shelf space. Results indicate that more than 30% of the shelf space is empty, while over 25% is occupied by journals, most of which are available in electronic format. These estimates would be used to inform decision making about shifting and/or withdrawal of library materials in preparation for the renovation of additional library spaces. The data-gathering process as well as data analysis and application used during the project may be applicable in other academic libraries.