Library Policies

COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT POLICY

NAME OF LIBRARIAN: Tom Bahlinger              Updated: August 28, 2019

NAME OF DEPARTMENT OR SUBJECT: Geology

GENERAL OBJECTIVES

            To support the Earth Sciences curriculum, materials will be acquired to keep the collection current on new theories and techniques in the field of Geology and related interests. Earth Sciences include some very dynamic, fast-changing subject areas.  Therefore, the Geology collection aims to cover areas of emerging interest that may be included in future instruction programs.  The needs of non-geology major students are also taken into consideration.  Collection efforts are aimed at maintaining a well-rounded geology collection.

SCOPE OF COVERAGE

            Language:  English will be the primary language of the collection, unless there is a special request from a student or faculty for materials in another language, especially Spanish language material.

            Geography:  United States publications are emphasized, with some world geology materials purchased.

            Chronology:  Emphasis is on the collection of current materials, generally published within the last five years. Older materials may be purchased if they are particularly significant or cover the history of the subject.

MATERIAL TYPES

            All formats may be considered for purchase.  Serials are heavily relied upon for current material.  Audiovisual materials will be reviewed for selective additions.  CD-ROMs and DVDs are generally added when accompanying print material, but may be purchased separately when available.  Textbooks are not purchased.

SELECTION TOOLS

            Materials will be identified through recommendations in or from:

            Faculty, student, or patron recommendations

            Choice

            Library journal

            Booklist

            [specialized journals]

            Publishers’ Discoverys and flyer

RETENTION POLICY

            Most materials will be considered for de-selection within five years of publication.  All superseded editions will be removed from the shelves.  Some major reference works and unique publications will not necessarily be deselected.  Materials of historic value or of general interest may also be retained beyond the five-year period.  Materials having local connections may be retained indefinitely.