Review of Matheson Library collections

A review of Sir Louis Matheson Library collections began in March 2006, both as part of ongoing management of the collections and also in preparation for the proposed refurbishment of the library.

Explains University Librarian Cathrine Harboe-Ree: “With 15,000 new books being added to the collections each year, shelves are reaching their holding capacity and it has become essential to look at optimising available space. “The review involves identifying low use titles and moving them into storage as well as discarding duplicate copies of superseded texts”.

She says it is important to note that a copy of each edition will always be retained, even textbook editions that have been superseded. Items held in storage can be retrieved if required. However, the review process will be focused on moving only very low-use items with a borrowing history showing that is extremely unlikely that they will be requested.

“As the Matheson Library will continue to be the primary site for arts, social sciences and the humanities, the greatest of care will be taken to ensure that the collection’s strengths are not devalued as part of the review process,” says Ms Harboe-Ree.

While a steering committee is overseeing the consistency and quality of the project, small working groups of specialist library staff are reviewing different areas of the collection in consultation with subject librarians.

17 October 2006

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Subject Librarian, Sue Little, checking holdings