Removing items from the collection is an important means to ensuring that it remains relevant to the programs and courses being taught. The deselection process also provides an important opportunity to evaluate the collection. It allows for the
- elimination of titles that are no longer relevant, are outdated or damaged;
- identification of subject gaps in the collection and thus provides the opportunity to purchases titles accordingly;
- provision of adequate space for new materials in subject areas of heavy use and in subject areas in support of new courses and programs;
- elimination of duplicate copies of works;
The selection librarians are responsible for this process. When needed, faculty members may be consulted.
The following questions are asked in the process:
- Is the title superseded by a newer edition?
- Is the content outdated, incorrect or non-factual?
- Is the content of an academic nature?
- Does the content align with the current curriculum?
- Is the title damaged beyond repair?