Library collection policies

The University of Melbourne Collection Policy 2006

APPENDIX 3: Collection Decision-Making Framework

1. Purpose

The development of this Collection Decision-Making Framework will address some of the major concerns expressed by students in ease of access and use of library materials by ensuring relevance and usability of the collections.  In the University of Melbourne Library Client Survey Support October 2005 (Rodski), and many previous surveys, students identified that they always had difficulty finding what they were looking for in the library.  These concerns need to be addressed, particularly in an environment where collection space is insufficient and the material is crowded and therefore not easily accessible.   The redevelopment of library spaces provides an opportunity to address long-held student concerns as part of the creation of new and innovative Learning Hubs.

2. Background

There are a number of key drivers supporting the development of this Collection Decision-Making Framework including:

• The University Of Melbourne Libraries – 10-year strategic plan http://www.unimelb.edu.au/infostrategy/policies/libraries_plan.html  as developed by Dr Kenn Fisher of Rubida Research Pty Ltd in 2004.  This strategic plan was developed in the context of the university’s strategic direction to be a leading research university both nationally and internationally.  In this report, Dr Fisher proposed the establishment of the Precinct Learning Hub Library Network.  A learning hub features a combination of library material collections including cultural assets, student teaching and learning spaces, collaborative learning, support for research, computer facilities, library and IT information support services, student support services and retail outlets.  The collections and services will be uniquely planned for each individual hub, according to the academic and research discipline and clientele that has been identified as its service priority
• Comments/concerns expressed by students in both The University of Melbourne Library Client Survey Support October 2005 (Rodski) and in the Quality of Administrative and Support Services for Students (QASSS) Survey 2005

While the initial use of the framework will be in assessing the current Engineering Collection as it moves to become an integral part of the Eastern Precinct Learning Hub centered on the Educational Resource Centre (ERC), the framework will provide a broader basis for the assessment of collections and is supported by the development of a range of communication mechanisms for student and faculty engagement. 

Information Services staff will liaise with academic staff in applying the framework to identify which parts of collections should be:

• Included in the relevant Learning Hubs
• Relocated to University of Melbourne off-site storage facilities
• Deselected
• Replaced by the provision of electronic resources.

This framework is underpinned by the principles and approaches outlined in the University’s Collection Policy. Reference also needs to be made to individual subject discipline collection policies, where available.

This Collection Decision-Making Framework provides broad guidance for library and academic staff to make decisions for inclusion of print and other material format in the newly emerging Learning Hubs and/or other relevant library initiatives.  However, the context in which these decisions are being made will be provided by the University’s Growing Esteem Strategic Plan http://growingesteem.unimelb.edu.au/about/, and in particular the Melbourne Model http://www.futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/courses/melbmodel/index.html of undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.

3. Elements of Collection Decision-Making Framework

• Data Template
• Access & location decisions
• Electronic Resources Policy
• De-selection policy

4. Framework Structure:

4.1 Data Template (Collection Usage and Needs Analysis)

Note: Online Usage statistics are not relevant here because this framework is to be applied to collections physically located in libraries.

*Modifications to Type of Material columns permitted to cater for library and subject variations, for example Music Scores in Music Library.  Relevant Library Subject Specialist staff and Library User Committees will be able to provide the most input into this

4.2 Access & location decisions

Categorization of All Materials:

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