Assessing Bibliographic Inaccuracy as a Contributing Factor for Unintended Loss in Shared Print Monograph Programs

Abstract

Shared print programs are helping their member libraries right-size their collections. As they do, there are concerns about the adverse impact of bibliographic inaccuracies. This paper studies bibliographic record inaccuracies and the resulting frequency of mismatches between an item owned and the record representing ownership. Through analysis of interlibrary loan (ILL) survey data, the authors found an overall low rate of bibliographic inaccuracy, and that inaccuracies rarely prevented library staff from verifying the ownership of the item. The authors review how this finding contributes to confidence in library holding records, which is necessary for evaluating the optimal number of copies in shared print networks and for minimizing the risk in withdrawal decisions.