University Library of Columbus (ULC) employs a collection development policy to direct the quality and technical standards for selection, deselection, management, and future acquisitions to its material. The policy is focused on providing user-centric resources, services, and expertise that promote knowledge acquisition, critical thinking, teaching, research, and lifelong learning.
General Policy
Providing access to current, relevant information is the foundation of our library. Based on evolving user needs and technological advances, emphasis is on acquiring and maintaining digital and electronic journals, periodicals, and other resources. Electronic books (e-books) will be acquired as needed in conjunction with available resources.
The ULC collection is regularly evaluated, both qualitatively and quantitatively, using information such as usage statistics, circulation data, and patron feedback to make decisions that make the collections user-centered and up-to-date. Physical inventory is undertaken on an annual basis. Deselection is a continuing practice in which the collection is kept relevant and useful in order to meet the changing and shifting nature of the environment in which it exists.
When the students, faculty, and staff need materials not included in the collection, the ULC will seek to provide access through other methods, including interlibrary loan. Privileges to interlibrary loan services are granted at the discretion of library staff; abuse of these privileges may result in revocation of service. The conditions of these services are based on the Interlibrary Loan Code of the American Library Association and the Copyright Law, Title 17, U.S. Code.
Complete Policy
ULC's Collection Development Policy contains information about collection-level selection criteria, collection maintenance, resource sharing, and special collection guidelines. If you are a student, faculty, staff member, or a local citizen who has questions about ULC policies, please contact us. We'll be happy to answer your questions or provide additional information.