New suite of library comparison metrics launched

Paratext has announced the launch of "nest", a groundbreaking suite of comparative library analytics built upon the platform of "bird". Nest will premiere at the 2024 Charleston Conference Vendor Showcase on November 12, 2024.

Launched in February 2024, bird: Base Inventory of Research Databases, is developed and maintained by research librarians. The platform provides subject selectors and collection strategists with the only comprehensive profile of 7,700+ commercial and Open Access (OA) research databases, spanning 177 academic disciplines, 34 formats and over 1,900 suppliers.

Nest enhances bird’s capabilities, offering one-touch peer institution and consortia comparisons for real-time benchmarking. Furthermore, it is built upon the foundation of bird, so libraries can view results with their local research database holdings and peer holdings in a unified view. It elevates collection insights by comparing a library’s holdings with another institution, consortia member, IPEDS peer and even select libraries you choose who may be outside these categories.

Library and collection leaders gain the market insight needed to measure progress, spot emerging trends, identify duplication, and make smart budget decisions.

Eric M. Calaluca, President of Paratext, noted that, “through nest, Paratext provides tools for libraries to analyse their collections and produce dynamic dashboards that illustrate how they compare against peer institutions. Synchronised queries via bird and nest offer instant current awareness of all relevant content, refine areas for institution growth initiatives, and support research and grants.”

Bird is produced and published by Paratext, in technology partnership with Compendium Library Services. Trial use for library personnel is available on request at birdofparatext.com.