Bringing the scholarly world and the collections of scholarly resources together is an ongoing challenge that involves providing a variety of inducements, rediscovering the potential riches of collections, and encouraging imagination and innovative perspectives in the use of special collections. (Author)

Virginia Commonwealth University reduced its ready reference collection by integrating the majority into the general reference collection. The project was a success and advantages for staff included more time and focus on users; expanded knowledge of collection; and reduced stress. (JMV)

This discussion of collection management techniques emphasizes planning, collection strategies, and active selection. It is argued that policies and methodologies for applying collection management principles to reference collections are needed, and briefly describes the recently created Collection Development and Evaluation Section of the…

Examines the increasing information value of government documents as resource materials, the effects of information technology on access to government documents, and the resulting need for cooperation among archivists and librarians in selection and administration of these materials. (CLB)

Differing perspectives of reference collection development librarians and publishers are presented for the following topics: fairness of pricing trends; best/worst ways to communicate about new reference titles; deciding which sources should be published; impact of electronic materials on reference services; deciding on/selecting formats; and…

Discusses 10 misconceptions that publishers have about libraries. Issues include library book budgets; purchasing paperbacks, multiple copies, best sellers versus reference books, and books as opposed to software/hardware; sources of information on new publications; promotional events; and different functions of libraries and bookstores. (JKP)

Intended for use by the head of reference and subject-area bibliographers at Penfield Library, this document provides guidelines for the selection and evaluation of titles for the 25,000 volume reference collection at this primarily undergraduate institution. The reference collection also supports the general information needs of both the college…

Discusses references collections in academic libraries and offers guidelines for placing materials in a reference collection that focus on their suitability for true reference functions and the expected frequency of use. Problems with poorly managed collections are discussed, and the importance of selection policies and weeding are emphasized. (37…

Describes a recent increase in religious reference activity in public libraries and its impact on reference services and collection development. The need for open attitudes on the part of the librarian and the importance of understanding the patron's perspective are emphasized. Material selection aids and resource materials are reviewed. (CLB)

Focuses on significant developments of the recent past in acquisition and control of library microforms. Highlights include reference works essential to acquisition of microforms and microform equipment, microform utilization in libraries, bibliographic control, computer output microfilm (COM) and the Copyright Law, technological developments,…

Concerned mainly with the acquisition of knowledge in its various forms, both print and nonprint, the Watson Library's collection development policy is designed to support the curriculum needs of Northwestern State University (NSU) in Louisiana and the university's mission of dedication to the creation, dissemination, and acquisition of knowledge.…

Selection and development aids emphasizing materials for children through sixth grade are examined and the main categories (evaluative, non-evaluative) and subsets (current or retrospective, specific or all subjects, format) are noted. Factors to be considered in examining selection tools are discussed: organization, information provided,…

Examines health concerns affecting African Americans, and presents an annotated bibliography of 22 resources written for African Americans and arranged under the subheadings of general information, statistical data, keeping healthy, AIDS, social issues, community involvement, reference sources, periodicals, and databases. (LRW)

Examines the cost effectiveness of using CD-ROM encyclopedias in school libraries; finds print encyclopedias to be cheaper, but advocates the use of both. Sidebars include price comparisons of popular print and CD-ROM encyclopedias. (AEF)

Outlines goals and guidelines for developing Native American collections in libraries. Prominent publishers of relevant materials are identified and titles for a core collection are discussed, including reference and Native American subject area materials. (EA)