BTAA Collection Analysis Tool

Collection analytics is an essential capability for expanding the shared print program and for a range of future work with shared collections. Collection analysis tools enable members to coordinate effort and gain​ mutual benefit in the context of the shared collection​

What is the Collection Analysis Tool?

The BTAA Collection Analysis tool includes the full set of collection records for all member libraries (provided by member export of MARC records and associated item metadata). The collective collection includes more than 100 million records for items.  

The Colorado Alliance of Research Libraries has contracted to provide its Gold Rush infrastructure and manage the BTAA collection data to deliver the tool. 

The Collection Analysis Tool provides the ability for anyone with an account to use a faceted interface to compare and describe collective BTAA and individual member holdings around, create reports and visualizations. The metadata collection will be updated monthly going forward to enable members to analyze changes over time and in response to activities that enhance or correct metadata. 

Who is it for?

Anyone working in a member library can set up an account and begin engaging with the tool. Each member library has a Gold Rush Ingest Coordinator (see the linked list) who has access to the invitation code and the ability to provide it to colleagues who want to set up an account. Accounts are not available for individuals outside the BTAA.

What does it let you do?

The tool’s powerful capabilities support a flexible and extensive range of uses.  Descriptive analyses and comparisons are available within the interface along with the ability to export record sets defined through analytics. 

The BTAA is using the tool to begin a process of collective learning that is informing the first generation of agreements that will launch commitments to the distributed shared collection​

​In addition, member libraries can use the tool to begin making local decisions​ based on their library’s data. Over time, members can strategically invest in their collections in the context of the shared collection

Learning how to use the tool 

• A recorded training session that introduces the tool is available
  

• The Getting Started Guide includes important context on the analysis tool, tips on using the tool, and information on field mapping from metadata fields to facets in the tool.

• BTAA groups can request focused training sessions or consultation on using the Analysis Tool for a specific project by contacting karla.strieb@btaa.org