Improving library effectiveness: A proposal for applying fuzzy set concepts in the management of large collections

A new concept in mathematical modeling—fuzzy set theory—allows for the explicit consideration of “professional expertise and judgment.” This article introduces fuzzy set theory to the library community “at‐large” by providing (i) a brief historical perspective on fuzzy sets; (ii) an introduction to the fundamentals of fuzzy set theory; (iii) an avenue of approach for applications of the theory in a library environment; and (iv) suggestions for future development of fuzzy applications in the library management area.