Rightsizing the Academic Library Collection

Starred review from March 1, 2015

Libraries, like the times, are a-changin'. Faced with decreased shelf and remote storage space along with a lack of funding or interest in adding more, format obsolescence, as well as unused and duplicate resources, the need to do something fundamental about collection size is critical in building and sustaining the academic library of the future. Ward (Purdue Univ.; A Guide to Implementing and Managing Patron-Driven Acquisitions) makes a solid case for collections that are based not on outdated "just in case'" models and large numbers of titles but actual demand and use. She advocates for the creation of collections that with deliberate selection and deselection criteria can be made into the right size for the institutions and populations the library supports. As a recognized leader in the area of collection management, Ward provides both strategic and practical advice for developing and implementing data-driven, rules-based projects that include print and electronic formats. The final chapter on the future of physical collections in academic libraries is especially thought provoking. VERDICT Recommended reading for all academic librarians and library managers.--Linda Frederiksen, Washington State Univ. Lib., Vancouver

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