Crash Course in Collection Development

This indispensable resource provides tools for collection management in public libraries, featuring essential strategies for inventory assessment, market analysis, budgeting, marketing, and customer service. This book is a must-have for those just entering the field or professionals in need of a refresher in effective library operations.

This professional volume covers all aspects of collection development and management in the public library, from gathering statistics to design a collection that meets community needs, to selecting materials, managing vendor relations, understanding the publishing industry, and handling complaints. Author Wayne Disher provides public librarians―especially those without the benefit of academic training―access to the tools to make them successful, and their collections beneficial to the public they serve.

The second edition features two new chapters on digital curation and cooperative collection development. Additional updates include helpful information on infographics, more budgeting formulas, and a section on core collections, as well as content covering eBooks, electronic storage, and digital rights management. Chapters discuss subjects such as marketing the collection to patrons, book repair, and handling censorship issues when collections are challenged.

• Provides a current and basic overview of collection development in the public library

• Describes how to assess community needs and create a collection that meets those needs

• Offers insightful guidelines for writing a collection development policy

• Shows librarians how to identify non-users