Library Operations Research: A Process of Discovery and Justification

Abstract

This article begins with a discussion of the broad role of operations research (O. R.) in a society undergoing change. The nature of O. R. teams in a library environment is then considered. The function of models in O. R. is analyzed, the development of a model being contrasted with its formal presentation. Criteria for good models are suggested. This article then focuses on storage models for libraries, first considering the Dewey classification system from this perspective and then summarizing more current research carried out under the direction of the author with a grant from the National Science Foundation.