Using circulation systems for special collections: Tracking usage, promoting the collection, and addressing the backlogs

Abstract

Innovation and change are perennially hot topics in libraries: traditional library services are being rethought in response to emerging needs. At The Ohio State University (OSU) Libraries, a cross-departmental team responded to a new emphasis on assessment and outreach by using the circulation module of our integrated library system (ILS) to measure the use of special collections and archives materials. This endeavor enabled us to streamline workflow and document our successes, Increasing knowledge across the libraries about circulation functions and practices. This project's findings may apply at other institutions to assist librarians in planning and implementing such a project.