Library Collection Management
Managing Our Library Collections for Information Power
This document aligns current library collection management practices with the Bellingham Public Schools Instructional Materials Policy. This manual was developed in 1997 and revised in 2004.
The support materials in this manual are procedures followed by Bellingham Public School Libraries and integrate the use of the Follett Library Management System. They are intended as procedural guidelines for our school Library Media Specialists.
This manual is available in three formats:
HTML version
PDF (requires Acrobat Reader)
The manual is is organized in four sections as described below.
Assess-Know what you need
1.
Identify collection needs
2 . Conduct an annual inventory
Acquire -Know how to select and acquire what you need
1.
Idenfity high-quality materials that meet district guidelines.
2. Select and order materials for purchase based on criteria.
3. Follow established ordering procedures.
4. Process new materials.
5. Review the process by which a parent or guardian can
request the Reconsideration of Instructional Materials.
Maximize Access-Know how to bring resources and people together
1.
Maximize search capabilities for users.
2. Publicize diverse resources.
3. Minimize physical, intellectual and time barriers.
Maintain-Know how to keep the collection current and functional
1.
Care for library resources.
2. Eliminate materials that do not conform to district
guidelines.
3. Produce records of collection maintenance and development.
4. Properly handle lost and damaged materials.
5. Perform occasional housekeeping chores on the collection.
