The management use of library statistics

Librarians are great compilers of statistics but exhibit poor abilities in their interpretation, manipulation or use. The library manager should recognise a need for accurate and relevant statistical information and the need for intelligible means of analysis. However statistical information should not become the sole acceptable criterion for decision making as this would destroy the essence of professional judgement. Special reference is made to statistical analysis at Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT) in the area of collection development. (ALB)