For immediate release | July 19, 2012

The fundamentals of managing reference collections

Fundamentals of Managing Reference Collections

CHICAGO — Whether a library’s reference collection is large or small, it needs constant attention. Carol A. Singer's book “Fundamentals of Managing Reference Collections,” published by ALA Editions, offers information and insight on best practices for reference collection management, no matter the size, and shows why managing without a plan is a recipe for clutter and confusion. In this practical guide, readers will learn:

  • The importance of collection development policies and how to effectively involve others in the decision-making process;
  • New insights into selecting reference materials, both print and electronic;
  • Strategies for collection maintenance, including the all-important issue of weeding.

This important new book will help librarians make better reference decisions, ones aligned with the needs and expectations of library users, especially significant with today’s limited budgets.

A reference and instruction librarian at Bowling Green State University, Ohio, one of Singer’s primary responsibilities is coordinating the development and management of the reference collection. Her research has focused on reference collections and services, as well as government publications. She is the author of many articles and the editor of Docs Prescriptions, the newsletter of the Government Documents Round Table of Ohio.

ALA Store purchases fund advocacy, awareness and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide. ALA Editions publishes resources used worldwide by tens of thousands of library and information professionals to improve programs, build on best practices, develop leadership, and for personal professional development. ALA authors and developers are leaders in their fields, and their content is published in a growing range of print and electronic formats. Contact ALA Editions at (800) 545-2433 ext. 5418 or editionsmarketing@ala.org.

Related Links

"Fundamentals of Managing Reference Collections"

"Fundamentals of Reference"

"No Shelf Required 2: Use and Management of Electronic Books"

Contact:

Jill Davis

Marketing Manager

ALA Editions

editionsmarketing@ala.org

1-800-545-2433 ext. 5418