Assessing the impact of computer technology on the performance of interlibrary loan networks

Abstract

Abstract Performance of interlibrary loan networks in terms of probability of success and average time to satisfy a request is enhanced when location and availability information can be accessed. Existing computer technologies such as shared cataloging networks and automated circulation systems can be of use in obtaining this information. A procedure is presented for quantitative assessment of the impact of these technologies and their various combinations on interlibrary loan activities. As an example, the procedure is utilized for predicting the impact of these computer technologies on the Illinois Library and Information Network (ILLINET). Results show that the value of location information as obtained from a shared cataloging network or similar technology is highly dependent on the information being specific enough to free the lending library from searching their own main catalog. The value of availability information is shown to be related to the processing time that can be avoided by having prior information about the circulation status of the desired item. These results are dependent on the policies employed in Illinois. However, the assessment procedures presented here have general applicability to interlibrary loan networks.