The Library collects materials to support the Columbia College mission in accordance
with YCCD Board Policies 6030, 4-8061 and 6045. Towards that end, we strive to provide
materials:
relevant to current and projected class assignments
representative of the many different sides of a particular debate or topic
suggested by faculty and other experts as being relevant to the field and/or their
students’ learning favorably reviewed by sources well-regarded in the industry
that strengthen the breadth and depth of our collection
of local interest because of geography, history or other close connections
that promote and encourage reading by all patron populations
typical of small, rural, academic libraries
reflective of the complex nature of topics on local, national and international levels
that allow us to maximize available funds
All items are evaluated for appropriateness for our collection prior to acquisition.
This can include:
a positive review in an industry recognized publication
holdings by other academic libraries, specifically those serving California community
colleges
first hand evaluation by a faculty member in a related discipline
Some exceptions to the above criteria are made for items of significant local importance
that are unlikely to be widely-known outside of our immediate geographic area.
Weeding
To maintain a relevant collection and to maximize available space, the Library regularly
evaluates its collection and removes outdated, superseded, no longer needed and/or
deteriorated materials. The basic process recognizes that different parts of the collection
require a different approach because of subject matter and format.
Step:
Identify areas of the collection in need of review based on when they were last evaluated
Determine individual items within a given area should be looked at. Consider:
Date of publication and/or addition to the collection appropriate for a given subject
The item’s condition
Alternatives available in collection (i.e. strength of area of the collection)
Current and projected course offerings
Availability and ease of access from other institutions
Frequency of use
Isolate items under consideration for further evaluation
Solicit feedback from relevant faculty regarding suitability for retention, replacement
or withdrawal
The final decision for withdrawal and/or replacement is made by the Faculty Librarian.
Withdrawn materials are immediately discarded.
