The Next Steps in Developing Usage Statistics for E-Serials

Most statistics for e-serials can be accurately described as “usage data,” with vendors providing basic information on the use of their products through such variables as sessions, searches, tables of contents viewed, and full-text articles downloaded. Statistical analyses, in which two or more products are compared for title overlap and relative use or are examined for long-term use patterns for the study of academic research styles, must be performed in the library, as time and personnel constraints permit. Within this complex situation, there are several levels in which to develop and improve the utility of usage statistics. Close integration with the educational and budgetary activities of the library is an essential factor to include in the total process.