Collection Development Policy

Will W. Alexander Library’s Collection Development Policy ensures that library resources support its mission to foster intellectual growth, critical thinking, and academic success. This policy guides the selection, maintenance, and evaluation of materials, ensuring they align with the evolving needs of students, faculty, and researchers.

Principles of Selection

Library materials are selected based on the following criteria to maintain a diverse, high-quality collection:

• Relevance – Supports the university’s curriculum, academic programs, and research initiatives.

• Authority & Credibility – Authored by recognized experts, scholars, or reputable publishers.

• Diversity & Inclusion – Represents a range of perspectives, cultures, and global viewpoints.

• Timeliness – Updated regularly to reflect the latest research and advancements in various fields.

• Accessibility & Format – Available in formats that enhance usability, including print, digital, audiovisual, and open-access resources.

Commitment to Transparency & Strategic Resource Allocation

Will W. Alexander Library is committed to maintaining a transparent selection process and ensuring that collection funds are allocated effectively. Selection decisions are made in

collaboration with faculty, academic departments, and student recommendations, ensuring materials align with both current and emerging research needs.

To maximize the impact of available resources, Will W. Alexander Library:

• Maintains a balanced collection to support accessibility and remote learning.
• Conducts an annual review (each Spring) of the collection to identify outdated or underutilized materials for removal or replacement facilitated by the Library Council.

Support for Research & Lifelong Learning

Will W. Alexander Library remains committed to supporting both traditional and evolving models of research and teaching by:

• Expanding open-access resources to reduce financial barriers to knowledge.
• Hosting at least one faculty-librarian collaboration meeting per semester (Library Council) to align collection development with academic priorities.

• Increasing student engagement with research and information literacy materials by through targeted workshops and outreach.

Continuous Evaluation & Policy Review

To ensure the collection remains relevant and responsive, the library will:

• Conduct a formal policy review every three years to incorporate emerging needs and technological advancements.

• Use data-driven decision-making by analyzing circulation, digital resource usage, and user feedback annually to refine collection strategies.
  
  
  

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