CORDIS Archive

Telematics for Libraries - Projects

LIBECON 2000

Updated: 22 NOV 99

Additional information is available from the LIBECON/2000 Web site . (http://www.libecon2000.org)

Accompanying Measure

This is an accompanying measure in the field of library statistics and indicators

Call Topic(s)

Not applicable

Project description

LIBECON2000 is an accompanying measure based on previous studies on Library Economics in Europe. Its aim is to continue research in this field, employing more up-to-date tools for collecting and presenting statistics and extending the scope to Central and Eastern European (Cⅇ) countries likely to join the EU in the years to come.

Organisational approach

The project is developing specifications for implementation of the following:

• Statistical Database
• Textual Database
• Historic Foundation Database

Furthermore, there will be:

• Newsletter publishing facilities
• Standard reports for the main types of statistical enquiry
• Data retrieval, analysis and downloading facilities.

The work is carried out by two sub-contractors, one in a Cⅇ country (Czech Republic) under guidance of a coordinator, and in cooperation with IFLA and UNESCO.

Key issues

The main issues addressed are:

• Improving the quality of implementation of standardised methods in the collection and publication of data relating to library economics and statistics for EU and EFTA countries and CEE countries with or approaching an association agreement with the EU.
• Improving dissemination and access to such data and ensure that it can be validly used for benchmarking and comparison by policy makers and practitioners.
• Reaching agreement between the countries concerned regarding key performance indicators to be used for internal and external benchmarking.
• Building on previous work in the international arena, such as work of DGXIII of the European Com-mission, UNESCO, IFLA and ISO

Actions and Results

The main actions focus on recording statistics about library economics and disseminating information.

A Web-accessible statistics database is being set up and maintained by:

• pro-forma guided data entry,
• validation of submitted data employing cross-tabulation and plausibility checks,
• search facilities for finding key contacts in each library sector / country,
• a glossary of the main headings employed in the key statistical compilations maintained in these sectors / countries.

Impact

LIBECON2000 will provide means for measuring the performance of libraries in promoting their services, leading to internationally comparable results.

It will maintain statistical information necessary for instance for monitoring the effects of funding on a European scale. It will direct participating countries towards greater standardisation in the manner in which they define and record their activities.

It is anticipated that the greatest benefit will derive from the fact that the most up-to-date information about library activities at the international and national level will be available from a single accessible location

Additional information is available from the contact below and from the project Web site:
LIBECON/2000 Web site .

Coordinator

Other Partners

Coordinator