Deselection of Library Materials

The vitality of the University Libraries’ collections depends upon continuous collection development and careful collection management. To enhance the Libraries' value and utility, librarians must carefully maintain collections. One important aspect of this process is the deselection (withdrawal) of outdated materials that no longer support the mission of the University or the goal of the University Libraries’ collections.  

The process of deselecting materials requires as much care as the process of selection. It is important to view deselection within the broader context of the University Libraries' collection development policies. Deselection is a consultative endeavor between librarians and faculty when questions arise. 

Titles no longer relevant to current curricular or research needs and therefore not within the scope of the Libraries' current collection development policies may be removed from the collection or subscriptions may be cancelled. Titles that contain obsolete information, such as legal or medical reference works, may be deselected because the information they contain is out-of-date, invalid, inaccurate, or incomplete.  Titles not used by current faculty and students may be deselected.

Copies or editions of titles may be deselected to minimize redundancy of holdings. Individual titles containing information found elsewhere in the collection may also be deselected for this purpose.

Materials may be deselected due to poor physical condition. Many current newspapers are routinely retained for stated periods and then discarded or replaced in electronic format or microform. Deteriorating books are evaluated for preservation and withdrawn if necessary. Replacement copies are purchased as appropriate and available.