The most common method for measuring use of periodicals in these ten studies
was measuring re-shelving statistics. Nine of the studies reviewed used this method,
generally using some form of the “sweep” method. Two studies employed unobtrusive
observation of patron behavior. One surveyed or interviewed patrons about serials use.
One study sought faculty input on use of titles. Photocopy statistics were analyzed in one
study, and interlibrary loan statistics were studied in two. One study used citation
analysis of faculty papers while journal impact factors were studied by two libraries, and
library gate counts examined in one. Five of the ten academic libraries used a
combination of two or more methods (see figure 1)