Subject: Shared Collection Development in a Public Library
From: Frank Moulton <fmoulton_at_will.state.wy.us>
Hi folks;
I am new to this list, and therefore unaware if its scope
is restricted to academic libraries. If not, I have a request
for comments.
After 20 years as an academic librarian, I have taken a position
as de facto collection development coordinator for a
small-to-medium sized county library that has instigated what
appears to be an unusual model for collection development. Of a
total staff of about 70, we have designated between 20 and
25 "selectors" for various Dewey ranges, formats, and fiction
genres, spread throughout the staff but concentrated mostly in
the Reference and Circulation departments. Most
are paraprofessionals, although many have education or
experience pertinent to their areas of selection
responsibility. While this has some notable advantages (diversity
of perspective, empowerment and engagement of staff) we have
also lately experienced some difficulties, particularly with
staff turnover and training delays. My question is this: has
anyone out there worked in this type of environment before, and do
you have any suggestions for improving coordination, communication,
or time management? Also, has anyone encountered
insurmountable difficulties when attempting to distribute
collection development responsibilities? I would be happy
to summarize any responses for the list if there is interest ...
Frank Moulton
Reference Librarian
Teton County Library
Jackson, Wyoming
Received on Sat Apr 01 2006 - 02:18:40 EST