Allocation formulas in practice

The literature has, over the years, been represented by a number of contributions dealing with allocation formulas in academic libraries. Previous studies have shown that a majority of libraries made use of formulas. The present study focuses on the proportion of libraries using formulas for resource allocation now, characteristics of the institutions with which those libraries are affiliated, and the composition of the formulas. Relatively few variables are widely used, but the weightings and relationships among variables differ considerably from formula to formula. Examples of some formulas currently in use are presented.