Public Library Nonfiction Collection Development

Tracy, Anna

INFO 266, Fall 2016

This article covers a pilot study of 8 Australian public libraries to test subject based collection analysis. Collection development as an art or a scientific method? Not going to lie, this was a rough article to read, primarily filled with data results and overly complicated language. However, the resulting methodology is an example of resources readily available to us now, to assist with collection development.

How does a scientific approach deal with the idiosyncrasies of different communities and neighborhoods? It’s not just about providing a well-rounded collection, but providing what the customers want most. Collection gaps versus collection priorities. Utilizing scientific analysis software’s such as Edelweiss along with the pairing of the personal touch of someone invested in the community seems to be the right balance in collection development. It is an artistic process backed by scientific data.

Kelly, M. m. (2015). An Evidence Based Methodology to Facilitate Public Library Non-fiction Collection Development. Evidence Based Library & Information Practice, 10(4), 40-61.

It takes a village

Tracy, Anna

INFO 266, Fall 2016

Mickelsen, A. (2016). PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. Library Journal, 141(14), 34-36.

Overall take away; ‘It takes a village’ and ‘don’t be afraid to fail’. This article discusses the very basics of collection development. The importance of not only purchasing materials, but in their upkeep and replacement as well, utilizing subscription software’s such as Edelweiss and challenges we will all face.

In my limited experience, I have encountered almost everything discussed in this article. I have found that my budget is never enough, and that since it is only a small facet of my position, it truly does take a village. Most importantly I found that connecting with the customer’s one on one is the best way to see trends and predict purchasing wants and needs in order to make the collection as relevant to our patrons as possible.

I just began using Edelweiss about a month ago and have found it extremely helpful, though I have only scratched the surface in terms of its capabilities and have been using it extensively for overdue weeding at this point. It was interesting to read how other people might utilize the software and to hear positive remarks in its favor.

I found it interesting that the author said collections development is about balance. I have inherited two departments that have not had balance in their development for the last several years and as such are in extreme need of weeding and replacement ordering, with a budget only allowing for new materials or replacement. There is a balance to be found between the two, though I fear it will take several years to get the collection back up to par.