Library Information

Policies: Weeding Policy

In order to maintain the quality of the collection, obsolete and unused materials are removed from the working collection on a continual basis. The advice of individual faculty, academic departments, or other uniquely qualified individuals is sought when appropriate. No materials are withdrawn or discarded only because they contain controversial or unpopular opinions. The final decision rests with the Head Librarian.

Infrequently used books are retained if they contribute to the excellence of the collection as a whole and are cited in at least one standard subject bibliography. As a general guideline, last copies and out-of-print books are retained if they are of value when viewed in the perspective of the total collection.

The process of weeding the collection involves time, skill in collection development, expertise in collection maintenance, and a thorough knowledge of books and their potential reference or research value for library users.

Criteria for Weeding the Collection

• Obsolescence (especially science, technology, mathematics and the social sciences)
• Physical condition
• Number of copies
• Coverage of the subject by other materials in the collection
• Value added to the total collection
• Insufficient use (This will not be the sole governing factor.)

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