Academic Library Survey input

The process is underway to reintegrate the Academic Library Survey (ALS) into the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) survey, starting with the 2013 data collection year. Initial discussions were held in New Orleans at the annual meeting of the Academic Library Survey Advisory Committee meeting. Tom Weko, Associate Commissioner, Postsecondary Studies Division, National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) provided procedural background information and proposed steps for the reintegration process, comparing data elements in the existing Academic Library Survey with the various IPEDS components. The two main reasons are to improve the quality of the data and decrease the collection burden.

In August a two-day Technical Review Panel brought together experts in the field for a comprehensive discussion of existing ALS data elements and the possible inclusion as part of the reintegrated survey. The panel discussed every aspect of the existing ALS, including eligibility requirements, staffing, funding and services. A report from Technical Review Panel #35, Reintegrating the Academic Libraries Survey into IPEDS, is available on the IPEDS TRP Web site: https://edsurveys.rti.org/IPEDS_TRP/Index.aspx

The report is open for public comments by October 18, 2011. This is the time to review the proposed changes and submit your responses for consideration. Pass along this invitation for comments to appropriate colleagues and constituencies who have an interest in academic library statistics, data collection, and research.