University library performance management: Applying zero-sum gains DEA models to resource allocation

The management of university libraries faces major challenges in evaluating its performance since in many cases this assessment is performed inappropriately. One of the challenges is the lack of fair approaches to reallocate resources in university library systems. In this context, data envelopment analysis (DEA), a flexible technique that allows the use of multiple inputs and outputs to assess the performance of productive units, may prove useful. In DEA, in addition to the so-called classic models, there are the zero-sum gains (ZSG) models that, when used together, assist in resource allocation. This work aims to develop a powerful approach to help the manager to assess the performance of libraries as well as allow the reallocation of resources within an integrated library system of a university in Brazil. This two-step approach is based on the classic CCR model in the first stage and the ZSG CCR DEA (zero-sum gains data envelopment analysis CCR) model on the next stage, both oriented to inputs. The results show increases in the efficiency of libraries through the redistribution of resources. This approach is invaluable to the management of library systems since it provides an instrument for improving resource utilization.