Weeding is the process of reviewing library materials to remove out-of-date, unreliable, or otherwise unneeded materials from the collection.
Weeding is a necessary part of library management that results in a more accessible, current collection that is easier for users to navigate.
The goals of a library weeding project include:
In the summer of 2014 Ely Library began a comprehensive weeding project, starting on the fifth floor with subject areas in which currency is paramount: the STEM fields and the health sciences. All full time librarians participate in the review of materials, physically examining each volume as well as consulting relevant review literature and publisher information.
Materials in the Ely Library circulating collection may be flagged for weeding if any of the following are true:
Titles may be retained if any of the following are true:
Additionally, titles may be retained at the discretion of the Library if they are necessary to maintain a balanced, well-rounded collection.
For more information on the guidelines for collection, retention, and deselection of materials, please see the Ely Library Collection Development Policy linked below.
If you have questions about the weeding process or would like to discuss the process outlined in this guide, please contact Becca Brody or your subject librarian.