The Efficient Level Of Public Library Services

Malcolm Getz

No 321, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: Criteria for determining the efficient mix of branches, hours, stock, and new acquisitions are developed and applied to the branch operations of the New York Public Library. A method based on traveling costs is used to value library use at each branch. The relationship between library operations and library use is estimated using a two-stage technique. The costs of library operations are explored. Marginal benefit-cost ratios are presented. The study finds that the New York Public Library operates too many branches for too few hours of service.

Date: 1979-02
Note: PE
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Published as Getz, Malcom. "The Efficient Level of Public Library Services." Public Libraries: An Economic View, Chapter 4, Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, (1980), pp. 72-103.

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