Quantitative Research Article Critique: Collection Development Using Data Analytics
Related Learning Outcome
IV.a. Students will describe applications of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies in library and information science.
Artifact Overview
This artifact critiques a quantitative research article on collection development using data analytics at Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women. The reviewed study analyzed print collection usage data from 2022 to 2024 to identify underused areas of the collection and test whether Truesdale’s 80/20 rule applied to circulation patterns. The article found that most circulation came from a relatively small portion of the collection, then used those findings to propose data-informed selection and weeding guidelines.
I selected this artifact for Outcome IV.a because it demonstrates my ability to identify and explain the use of quantitative research methods in LIS. The critique focuses on how circulation data, faculty-recommended title usage, and collection analysis can inform practical library decisions. It also notes the limitations of the study, including its focus on print materials and exclusion of reference titles, which may reduce the usefulness of the resulting policy. This artifact shows my ability to interpret a quantitative LIS study not just as research, but as a tool for evidence-based decision-making in collection management.