Discusses academic library collection-development theory and policy. Suggests that a standard collection of works specific to each discipline (a canon), is a powerful tool because such canons can censor the works that fall outside of the prevailing norms, the hegemony of the discipline. (LRW)

The research reported suggests some ways in which economists could help themselves by rationalizing their literature, making better use of the bibliographic tools in existence and improving these tools. Ways librarians could do more to assist their readers are specified. (10 references) (Author/NH)

Describes a major deaccessioning (weeding) project begun in 1985 at the library of the Nebraska State Historical Society, including a brief history of the Society and the events leading to the decision to weed. Public controversy over the handling of the project, benefits of the weeding, and new acquisitions policies are also discussed. (MES)

A reference guide from leading experts in the field, this book covers the repair, maintenance, and preservation of library or archive collections, providing a definitive and authoritative analysis of how to plan for and ensure the long-term health of an institution's collection in this digital age. Chapters include: (1) "Defining the Library…

Examines an effective response to library or archive theft and vandalism of valuable materials: the restricted access reading room. Discusses the need for an alert staff, user identification, restriction of carry-in items, electronic surveillance, record keeping, limits to quantities of collection materials, exiting procedure, photocopying, theft…

This report provides an update of the possibilities and limitations of currently available mass deacidification methods, focusing on the major developments in research and application of the main operational systems. This study is intended primarily to support the development of a well-considered preservation policy by librarians and archivists,…

Examines the inability of libraries to include sexual videotapes in their collections. Discusses the explicit text versus visual images and the double standards in collection policies; Madonna's picture book, "Sex"; controversial films; and who the censors are. Reviews 20 videotapes with explicit images of violence, sex, and other issues. (AEF)

The creation of rules and procedures for cataloging archival collections was made difficult because of the nature of archives and manuscript collections and the challenge of describing them. Discusses definitions and principles; accessioning and arrangement; inventories, the core descriptive finding aid; integrated descriptive programs; and…

Discussion of selection criteria for special collections in libraries focuses on the development of selection criteria at the National Museum of Science and Technology in Canada. The need for the involvement of staff members is discussed, and criteria for materials are described, including age, rarity, historical significance, and physical…

Formulas from the "Standards for College Libraries" were used to compare the recommended collection size and number of professional librarians with the actual size of the collections and number of librarians for a random sample of Baccalaureate I and II colleges. Results revealed that significant numbers are not meeting the "Standards" in these…

Firm policies and procedures that address the environment, patron/staff behavior, general attitude, and care and handling of materials need to be at the core of the library/archival security program. Discussion includes evaluating a repository's security needs, collections security, security in non-public areas, security in the reading room,…

Although preservation is typically considered a concern of academic and special libraries only, many inexpensive and cost-effective preservation methods exist that public librarians should implement. Discusses why and how public libraries should preserve and outlines preservation and disaster mitigation tips. Lists supplies for disaster…

Because of the high incidence of special-collections thefts and embezzlements during the past decade, library management must reassess its "user friendly" philosophy for both library patrons and employees. An internal control system is described. Causes of theft, and policies and procedures for protecting the collection are discussed. (AEF)

Provides a brief review of the basic elements of library security and preservation programs as a background for an exploration of security/preservation issues, problems, and policies. Discusses environmental control, disaster preparedness, fire protection, storage and handling, and controlling access to collections. (AEF)