Budget Allocation Policy

Budget Allocation and Funding Statements in Policies.

Hi guys, the below is my vey basic surmise of the budgeting policy.

“Although a core feature of collection management the allocation of funds has only recently become a fixture in the policy statement.”(Hoffman & Wood,p37,2005)

“Because process once carried out behind closed doors are now appearing in public documents”. (Hoffman & Wood,p37,2005)

“Procedure once part of manuals attached to policy documents are today more likely to be inserted into the policy proper.” (Hoffman & Wood,p37,2005)

"It’s policy discussion does two things,
1. calls for increase accountability on the part of the public institutions
2. Desire of library administrators for ammunition in budgetary hearings."

"The funding section should focus on the sources for the materials budget whether or not supplementary monies are available, and the basic breakdowns for acquiring library holdings."

"Exactly what kinds of resources are being purchased through mainstream budgetary allotments.
How does the library determine its collection priorities?
Assuming essential services are in no way compromised, can funds be saved by substituting one format for another?
Will a cooperative acquisitions program facilitate fiscal savings?
Has the library mad a reasonable attempt to obtain support through grants philanthropy, and other sources?" (Hoffman & Wood,p37,2005)

Extensive line item break downs and thoroughgoing discussions of performance-based budgets are better placed in all encompassing procedures manual.
(Hoffman & Wood,p38,2005)



The most pertinent example for us is I think the Clatsop Community College library policy.

Again because were not going to be that stuck for cash with our budget we needn’t be too concerned with the constraints but the layout it is useful. I’ve included what might be relevant. (Hoffman & Wood,p39,2005)

“Funds are allotted at this time by format : AV materials, Books, and Periodicals. Funds are not allotted by topic or department.” (Hoffman & Wood,p37,2005)

“Classic materials in literature, of high quality and lasting value, and in high demand for the instructional needs will be purchased if available in several formats……. Only certain percent of the budget can be used to that effect, as stated below. The first and primary purchase of an item will be in its primary format……”(Hoffman & Wood,p37,2005)

“Books and AV materials : approximately 40 % of the book budget is allotted to standing orders at this time, mainly for reference books. …”(Hoffman & Wood,p40,2005)

“At this time, the AV budget is focused primarily on requests from instructors, to support their class demonstrations and their teaching..” (Hoffman & Wood,p40,2005)