Defines collection development and discusses several issues related to this function in the academic library: (1) the importance of a collection development policy; (2) material selection; (3) faculty-library cooperation; (4) cooperation with other library departments; (5) weeding; and (6) effects of automation. Nine references are listed. (MES)

This examination of the issue of intellectual freedom in academic libraries provides examples of recent controversies, and argues that the library's response to such controversies provides an opportunity to emphasize its educational role. It is noted that academic libraries are full of controversial materials, and that this is necessary if the…

The role of the research library and issues in access to increasing quantities of information are discussed, including the problems of cataloging and classifying information and the barriers to access often created by librarians. (MSE)

Explores the role of the academic rare book library in terms of its financial justification and concludes that the primary justification lies in its utility as a research library. It is also concluded that institutions unable to support a proper rare book collection might be advised to develop appropriate special collections instead. (19…

A survey of academic libraries which were members of the Association of Research Libraries in 1983-84 studies the organizational patterns that exist for collection development. Findings reveal that, although a variety of patterns exist, the one outstanding development has been the upgrading of the unit responsible for collection development.…

Argues that collection development systems need to exert greater control over scholarly and educational information if the systems are to adapt to changing technical and economic conditions. Steps toward increased control should include categorization of sources and access by function, ongoing definition of a title-specific core, and the…

Reports on a 1995 survey of Wisconsin academic libraries regarding collection development practices for languages and literature. Results suggest that faculty control selection; approval plans have not taken over from personal selection; and local demand is emphasized over presumed quality as suggested by review magazines. (LRW)

Presents a model for collection development in small academic libraries based on experiences at Dickinson College (Pennsylvania). A faculty summer study group is described that was charged with enhancing the library's holdings in the area of Black or African American Studies, considering their curriculum plans. (Contains six references.) (LRW)

Description of services and functions of special collections as found in the academic library covers criteria for acquisition of materials, categorization of formats, role of special collections in promoting university scholarship and research, archival and repository functions, and administration and policy. A 12-item bibliography is included.…

Discussion of development in academic libraries in light of budget restrictions presents two approaches to this situation: short-term coping strategies, and a change in the role of libraries from repositories of resources to access services. Unanswered questions raised by the second approach are discussed, and reactions by six librarians are…

To reaffirm its accreditation with the Accrediting Association for Bible Colleges, Philadelphia College of Bible (Pennsylvania) studied programs and recommended improvements throughout the college. This study evaluates the operations of the library committee to determine if it functions according to its job description in the college's management…

This report describes a study undertaken by the Library Advisory Committee (LAC) to identify the crucial issues and trends affecting public academic libraries and to provide a set of recommendations to the State Board for Higher Education in these areas. The report focuses on the changing role and nature of academic libraries in Maryland as they…

This manual was developed to assist the members of the Network of Alabama Academic Libraries in the library collection assessment that is now required by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education as a component of any proposal that an institution submits for new program review and approval. This assessment component considers the ability of the…

Examines the economic behavior of academic research libraries, arguing that academic research libraries seek to maximize universities' utility by expanding library collections. Findings are consistent with those from a previous study using a different ranking system and sample data and reconfirm that library collections contribute significantly to…

Considers issues facing academic libraries in liberal arts colleges. Topics discussed include the need for faculty support; needs of faculty researchers; collection development, including faculty demands; resource sharing; the impact of information technology; the role of the library; and current awareness services, such as selective dissemination…