Using Cited Half-life to Adjust Download Statistics

“Supplying accurate CPU [cost-per-serial use] information to faculty and appropriate marketing of the alternate modes of delivery ... become the key to achieving an optimal cost-efficient serials collection in an academic library.” (Marisa Scigliano, “Serial Use in a Small Academic Library: Determining Cost-effectiveness,” Serials Review 26 (2000): 43–52.) A model is presented for adjusting use statistics using a journal’s ISI Journal Citation Reports cited half-life.The goal is to improve the method used to evaluate the raw electronic download figure.The proposed model will still undercount total use, but the undercounting will be proportional across disciplines and less severe. By using this model, librarians can avoid making cancellation decisions that may cost their libraries more money in the long run.