Random Sampling: a Tool for Library Research

Abstract

Questions about the accuracy of library records, the behavior or attitudes of patrons, or the conditions of the books in the collection can often be answered by a random sampling study. Use of this time and money saving technique requires no special mathematical ability or statistical background. The concept of accuracy is discussed and a table is provided to simplify the determination of an appropriate sample size. A method of selecting a sample using random numbers is shown. Three examples illustrate the application of the technique to library problems.