Managing the Reference Collection

by  Christopher W. Nolan
Trinity University
San Antonio, Texas

Published by the American Library Association, Chicago, 1999

Contents

Preface

Chapter 1. Reference Collection Fundamentals

The Importance of the Reference Collection
Some Thoughts About Terminology
What Are Reference Sources?
The Uses of the Reference Collection
The Importance of a Lean Collection
What Belongs in the Reference Collection?
Questionable Criteria
The Ready Reference Collection
The Future of the Reference Collection

Chapter 2. The Reference Collection Development Policy

Rationale for a Reference Collection Development Policy
Elements of the Policy
Creating the Policy 

Chapter 3. Selectors for the Reference Collection

Selection by Individuals
Selection by Groups
The Importance of Collection Management

Chapter 4. Selection Principles

Selection Criteria-General
Selection Criteria-Source-Specific
Methods of Evaluation
Major Review Sources

Chapter 5. Selection of Electronic Resources

Unique Selection Issues
Criteria for Selecting Electronic Products
Electronic Reference Sources Versus Print Sources
Integrating Electronic Resources into the Reference Collection
Integrating the Internet into the Reference Collection 

Chapter 6. Practical Procedures: Acquisition, Evaluation, Weeding, and Maintenance

Acquisition
Evaluation of the Reference Collection
Weeding
Location Issues
Routine Maintenance

Chapter 7. Collection Management for Lean Budgets

General Guidelines
Cost Savings for Reference Books
Cost Savings for Reference Serials
Cost Savings for Electronic Reference Products

Bibliography 

Index