| The purpose of this study is to determine areas of collection strength and weakness, with the objective of increasing library effectiveness. Both the elementary and high school libraries were examined, for a complete understanding of our district library program as a whole. Data were gathered through print collection analysis, fiction turnover rates, digital collection usage records, student and teacher surveys, library staff interviews, and my own observations and field notes. I discovered our print collections as a whole are hideously outdated, in addition to specific worst-offender areas of size-deficit and copyright age. I discovered that our fiction sections are heavily used by patrons. My eyes were opened to the fact that although our digital collection is very helpful, it is incredibly under-utilized. I learned student and teacher needs for our libraries, and gained valuable input from library staff regarding all aspects of our collections. In order to increase library effectiveness, I will heavily weed the collection (a task that is long overdue!), rebuild specific Dewey areas, maintain a relevant fiction section, more effectively communicate the digital collection, purchase materials based on patron and library staff collaboration, and develop a district collection development policy that includes print and digital materials. I can't wait to get started!... |
