Managing the Reference Collection

by American Library Association

The reference collection is often seen as the heart of the library. For larger and well funded libraries, the reference collection may comprise a whole room or series of rooms in the library building with computers to locate information offsite. For other libraries, it may include a small number of very select print and electronic sources. The true measure of the library's reference collection is not how many volumes it has, but how readily patrons are able to find the information they need. Managing the reference collection is the key to ensuring that information provided is up to date, accurate and of sufficient quantity and quality to meet the diverse needs of the library's customers. "Managing the Reference Collection" provides the tools to select, organize and manage references in the library. Guidelines are given in key areas of reference collection management, developing a reference collection development policy; implementing selection policies and procedures; selecting and managing electronic reference sources; and evaluating and weeding reference collections. Advice is given on building and maintaining a reference collection on a lean budget. A bibliography includes other resources on reference collection management.

231 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999