Abstract
Based on data collected by the authors in Flemish public libraries, we show how the negative binomial distribution (NBD) can be used as a trend distribution for library circulation data. Although actual data show more variation than simple statistics can explain, we recommend the use of the NBD for practical, managerial purposes. As a consequence we also recommend the teaching of these methods in introductory library management courses.
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Reworked version of a report with the same title, dated August 1989.
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Leemans, MJ., Maes, M., Rousseau, R. et al. The negative binomial distribution as a trend distribution for circulation data in flemish public libraries. Scientometrics 25, 47–57 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02016846
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02016846