Unit 1: Building a Collection

Unit 1 Overview

This first unit examines basic principles and practices related to the development of public library collections.

Unit Objectives

By completing this unit you will be able to:

• list activities related to collection development
• discuss the importance of having a collection development policy and outline elements of such a policy
• outline considerations in planning for collection development
• describe methods of evaluating library collections
• identify and describe standard selection aids and methods
• outline criteria for selecting and weeding library materials

Unit Outline

1.1 Introduction to Collection Development

1.2 Collection Development Policies

1.3 Planning and Evaluating Your Collection

1.4 Budget Allocation

1.5 Selection and Weeding

1.6 Discussion and Comments

1.7 References and Additional Resources

1.8 Assignment 1: Collection Development Plan

Summary of Required Learning Activities

• 1.2 Participate in discussion on collection development policies.
• 1.5 Post a short report on a useful reviewing tool or other selection aid.
• 1.7 Recommend a resource related to collection development for the unit resource list.
• 1.8 Assignment 1: Develop a one year collection development plan or project proposal (20% of course mark).