E-metrics for Library and Information Professionals: How to Use Data for Managing and Evaluating Electronic Resource Collections

White, Andrew C. and Kamal, Eric Djiva. E-metrics for Library and Information Professionals: How to Use Data for Managing and Evaluating Electronic Resource Collections. New York: Neal-Schuman, 2006. 025.284 White isbn 1-55570-514-6

Designed to introduce readers to e-metrics ("the measurements of the use and activity of networked information"), this book is made up of 10 chapters that are divided among three major sections. Part 1 supplies a definition of e-metrics, explores their use in libraries, and discusses vendor-supplied electronic data reports. Part 2 explains why libraries need e-metrics, focusing on how they can be used for public relations, collection management, and library administration. Part 3 offers ways that libraries can build local e-metrics. Chapters cover the capturing and processing of statistics, infrastructure and technical requirements, and staffing needs. With its coherent structure, well-articulated language, and illustrative material (tables, figures, and examples), this book has much to recommend it. The authors are successful in elucidating a subject that may seem daunting and abstract to the uninitiated. Overall, an important resource for all librarians and information professionals.