Supporting New Programs During the Pandemic: Using Benchmarking to Communicate Resource Acquisition Needs

Abstract Two academic programs had been approved for creation at a four-year public university. Shortly after embarking on a collection and resource review process, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Due to the pandemic, many libraries and academic departments were asked to reduce their overall expenditures. New methods had to be utilized to enhance funding-focused conversations. The use of benchmarking was implemented to identify discipline-specific sources and influence budgetary approval. The benchmarking materials that were generated facilitated communication within the library, the emerging academic programs, and university-level administration. The use of these reports resulted in positive results in this specific case and ultimately led to the acquisition of a large portion of the requested resources. This approach may prove to be useful for increasing understanding across university units and assist with obtaining additional funding.