Orlando Public Library

Collection Development Policy

2019 Revision

Submitted by Crystal Stephenson

On October 1, 2019

Approved by the Orange County Library System’s

Board of Trustees
On October 18, 2019
LIS 6511 Collection Development and Maintenance
Part A: Collection Development Policy
Due: October 18, 2019
Crystal Stephenson

Collection Development Policy for Orlando Public Library

Table of Contents

1. Purpose Statement 3

2. Background Statement 3-4

3. Responsibility for Collection Management/Development 4

4. Mission, Goals, and Objectives Statements 4-5

5. Target Audiences 6

6. Budgeting and Funding 6

7. Evaluation Criteria 6-7

8. Analysis of Subject Fields 7

9. Analysis of Collection by Format 8

10. Selection Aids 8

11. Intellectual Freedom 8-9

12. Collection Maintenance and Weeding 9-10

13. Gift Policy and Procedures 10-12

14. Replacements 12-13

15. Special Collections 13

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Purpose Statement

The purpose of the Orlando Public Library’s Collection Development Policy is to serve as a
framework from which library staff may refer to for the continued growth and development of its
collections. The Collection Development Policy provides information for patrons and staff on the
selection and maintenance of materials offered by the Orange County Library System (OCLS). It
is a guide for Collection Development staff to follow in the selection of Library materials while
supporting the Library’s mission “to enhance the quality of life of its patrons by creating a
learning environment and experiences that foster personal growth and development.”
 
A public library naturally plays a critical role in the lives of those in the community it serves, and
as the Orlando Public Library has witnessed a steady increase in the transient population,
including homeless patrons and lower income families, it is the Library’s goal to become a safe
haven for the less fortunate and provide materials, resources and services that empower the local
community members and encourage a creative outlet to improve their quality of life. The Library
provides materials that represent and reflect diverse viewpoints and opinions. As a result, the
Orlando Public Library seeks to improve upon the identified usage needs of this segment of the
population by making selections deemed necessary for review, including the Library’s reference
section, legal aids for non-lawyers, informational DVDs, and materials addressing societal issues
of homelessness, addiction, and recovery.

Background Statement

As the main branch of the Orange County Library System (OCLS) located at 101 East Central
Boulevard in downtown Orlando, the Orlando Public Library serves a unique and diverse
population of over 68,000 residents within a three-mile radius. Among the estimated 68,350
members of the population, 35,191 have a job, resulting in an unemployment rate of 12.6
percent. While 46 percent of the population are identified as homeowners, a staggering 18.5
percent subsist below the poverty rate. Reported household incomes mirror these statistics, with
22 percent of residents making less than $20,000 annually. 
 
When considering the Orlando Public Library’s demographic challenges of 12.6 percent
unemployment, 20 percent uninsured, and 18.5 percent surviving below the poverty rate within
the service community, it is evident that the Library must enhance the collection to appropriately
meet the specific user needs of the underserved and often marginalized patrons. These needs
have been highlighted by an increase in services, such as The Right Service for job assistance,
the Career Online High School to obtain GEDs, and the success of the Library’s visiting social
worker, who has assisted over 2,200 patrons over the past fiscal year. Furthermore, the Library is
surrounded by seventeen shelters stationed within a ten-mile radius. With the help of key
informants from the Coalition for the Homeless around the corner and the Rescue Mission two
blocks away; patron surveys; and focus groups; a recent needs assessment has revealed
opportunities the Library can seize upon to develop and build a collection that adequately reflects
the unique needs of the homeless members of its service area. 
 
Dedicated to improving and updating the collection and services to meet the needs of the current
demographic, the Orlando Public Library seeks to weed outdated materials from the adult non-

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fiction and reference sections and add new, relevant items as identified by the needs assessment,
which include but certainly not limited to the following areas of focus:

 Job search guides and resume-building materials

 Reference materials with special deference to legal aids and guidance
 Materials addressing issues of homelessness, addiction, and recovery
 Informational DVDs

Based on a detailed needs assessment, transients and homeless patrons revealed a need for more
updated reference materials that focus on job-related topics and re-entering the workforce, legal
guides without the means of affording legal aid, local maps and area guides which include bus
routes and free services, and materials aimed at improving their quality of life as well as address
the issues that led to their current circumstances. Finally, because homeless patrons utilize the
expansive fourth floor computer lab regularly, often watching movies they checked out
downstairs, one method of information retrieval in demand is DVD format. Due to varying
reading levels and different cognitive and physical disabilities, informational DVDs are a
convenient and useful tool for patrons to access information and reference.

Responsibility for Collection Management/Development

While responsibility for the initial selection of materials lies with the Orlando Public Library’s
collection development and acquisitions departments, ultimate responsibility for the collection
and management rests with the Orange County Library System’s Director and CEO, who is
accountable to the District’s Board of Trustees made up of five prominent members of the
service community. The Library Director delegates to staff members the authority to interpret
and apply the policy. Library materials, including recommended works, are considered according
to the general policies and guidelines that follow.

Mission, Goals, and Objectives Statement

The mission of the Orlando Public Library is to serve the diverse population of the downtown
Orlando residents and community members with the most relevant materials, resources and
services to enrich their lives and invest in their lifelong learning. The Library has recognized an
opportunity to address the challenges faced by the less fortunate in the surrounding community
by performing a needs assessment focused on the homeless demographic and their unique
information needs. The Board of Trustees oversees and ultimately approves the Collection
Development Policy, which is understood as a living document guiding the Orlando Public
Library’s collection development. The policy serves as a directive for how the library brings its
mission, goals, and objectives to fruition. Developed with the increasing homeless demographics'
needs and interests in mind, the policy’s goals are to:

 Ensure equitable and free access to patrons of all backgrounds and circumstances
 Provide a safe environment for all to learn, develop, create, and grow
 Provide patrons with the most current, relevant and appropriate materials and resources
 Ensure consistency across all departments by providing staff a guide from which they
make informed decisions about selection and maintenance of materials in the collection

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  Maintain adherence to the rules, philosophy, and guidelines as outlined by the American
Library Association (ALA) regarding intellectual freedom and equitable access for all
patrons.

Mission:

The Orlando Public Library’s mission has consistently been to enhance the quality of life of its
patrons by creating a learning environment and experiences that foster personal growth and
development.

Goals & Objectives:

The Orlando Public Library strives to meet the following goals and objectives pursuant to the
Library’s stated mission.

Goals 1: Deliver the most relevant information resources to all patrons regardless of age, race,
background, culture, class, or circumstance.
 Objective: Actively review the adult non-fiction and reference materials for weeding
opportunities in preparation for new or current materials that better meet users’
information needs.
 Objective: Engage with and assist patrons in their search for materials by training staff to
be aware of patron circumstances and provide sensitivity training where needed.
 Objective: Provide updated training opportunities for staff centered in the reference
section to help them better assist patrons in the determined subject areas of focus as
outlined in the policy.
 Objective: Continue to work with key informants as identified in the needs assessment,
including the local shelters and church staff, to better gauge appropriate materials for
selection.

Goals 2: Meet the evolving needs of the diverse and changing community by encouraging
growth, development, and improving quality of life.
 Objective: Build the collection to reflect the diversity of patron needs, opinions, and
viewpoints by selecting a variety of resources and materials as determined by the needs
assessment.
 Objective: Introduce new formats of reference information as a method to engage patrons
and meet their needs in an evolving technological environment.
 Objective: Re-evaluate and closely examine the social services and resources with
particular focus on obtaining high school diplomas, citizenship, job attainment, and
language learning.

Goals 3: Continue to preserve Florida history by building upon and expanding the variety of
successful special collections.
 Objective: Re-organize the Disney Collection, which is currently housed in filing
cabinets, shelves, and microfilm.

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  Objective: Encourage more local authors to donate a copy of their work to the Local
Authors section for consideration of permanent circulation by offering events and
meetings attracting local talent.
 Objective: Reach out to neighboring historical societies and museums as a strategy to
seek out ideas for more valuable and specialized collections to feature.

Target Audiences

Through the process of a thorough needs assessment, this Collection Development Policy
identifies several of the lower-income, homeless, and transient segments of the service
community that frequent the Orlando Public Library. Target audiences are as follows:

1. Transients who obtain library cards for purposes of computer access, which they utilize to
look for jobs, watch DVDs, or locate general information about transportation and
resources in the downtown Orlando area.
2. Homeless patrons seeking a safe place to obtain information and entertainment materials,
including but not limited to job seeking efforts, on-site services, computer use, and
entertainment DVDs.
3. Low-income families seeking information on local resources as well as materials for their
children as recreation free of charge.
4. Uninsured, low-income or impoverished, and mentally or physically disabled patrons
who access Library materials with special needs, such as hearing impaired or large print
items, and utilize the Library for information on health, legal aids, and other pertinent
resources.

Budgeting and Funding

Funding for the Orlando Public Library’s collection is provided by a variety of sources. The
majority of the funding is generated through ad valorem taxes. According to information
provided by the Property Appraiser’s office, Orange County has experienced an increase in
property values with no change in millage rate this year, which results in an increase in Library
budget over the prior year. Other intergovernmental revenues come from state and federal grants,
state aid, and county grants, such as the Orange County Citizens’ Review Panel Grant. Library
services and charges include PC Passes, Fee Cards for out of county patrons, office supply
services like copies and faxes, reservations for meeting rooms, various product sales, and after
hour special events. Fines for lost, stolen or damaged materials round out the top sources of
income and funding.

The Orlando Public Library also has a Greeting & Gift Shop on the first floor and a Friends of
the Library bookstore located on the third floor that is open every day, year-round, with semi-
annual book sales that bring in a large crowd. Sales and proceeds from the book sales contribute
to the funding of events and programming.

Selection and Evaluation Criteria

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Utilizing their expertise, education, specialized training and specific knowledge of the subject
areas identified, and guided by the following criteria, the Collection Development staff will
analyze what areas of the collection needs improvement and what the library prioritizes for the
current fiscal budget. The following guidelines provide an overview of the criteria used when
making decisions regarding the content of the collection.

Criteria:
1. Service community needs and requests; current and anticipated demand
2. Focus on reputable sources and objective, authoritative reviews from recognized sources
3. Significance of material in current or historical context, including date of publication
4. Reputation of the author, publisher, and/or producer
5. Relevance to existing collection’s strengths and weaknesses
6. Price and availability within the Library’s budget

Analysis of Subject Fields

Adult Non-Fiction

Call # Subject CL AC GL PC Comments

General,
Computer Science
000 and Information 3 2 4 3 Needs weeding and updating.
Philosophy and
100 Psychology 3 3 4 2 Needs weeding and updating.
Needs more copies and added
200 Religion 3 2 4 3 works.
Needs weeding and
300 Social Sciences 3 4 4 2 updating/high demand.

400 Language 3 2 4 1 Needs additional materials.

500 Pure Science 4 0 4 1  

600 Technology 3 2 4 0 Needs weeding and updating.

700 Arts/Recreation 4 0 0 1  

800 Literature 4 0 0 1  
History/Geograph
900 y 3 1 3 3 Needs updating.

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 Needs weeding and
R Reference 3 4 4 1 updating/high demand.
Note: CL = Current Collection Strength; AC = Acquisition Commitment; GL = Collection Goal;
PC = Preservation Commitment

Analysis of Collection by Format

Format Subject CL AC GL PC Comments

FIC Adult Fiction 3 1 4 1 Needs more copies
NONFIC Adult Non-Fiction 2 3 3 2 Needs updating and added copies
Adult Spanish
SP Language 2 2 3 1 Needs more copies
Needs more variety (French,
FOREIGN Adult Foreign Language 1 1 2 1 Creole, German)
LOCAL Local Authors 2 0 0 0  
DVD Entertainment DVDs 3 1 3 1 More copies/high demand
DVD
NONFIC Informational DVDs 2 2 3 0 Needs weeding and updating
CD Music CDs 4 0 0 0  
CDB Adult Audio Books 3 1 3 1 More copies/high demand

Selection Aids

The following sources are used to guide Collection Development staff at the Orlando Public
Library in selecting materials that meet the criteria as outlined above and work towards an
unbiased and relevant collection. While this list is made up of primary sources, the Library is not
limited to those listed, but rather, provides an overview of resources the Library uses in the
selection of materials.

 Amazon.com
 Baker & Taylor, a Follett Company (TS 360 & Axis 360 Services)
 Ingram
 Book Review Digest, published by H.W. Wilson
 Booklist
 PBS
 DVDs for Schools

Intellectual Freedom

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The Orlando Public Library’s Intellectual Freedom policy is guided first and foremost by the
American Library Association’s (ALA) Library Bill of Rights. The Library fully endorses the
Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read Statement, and all other statements regarding
intellectual freedom as adopted by the ALA. “The American Library Association affirms that all
libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide
their services” (American Library Association, 2019).

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and
enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be
excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their
creation.
II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on
current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of
partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide
information and enlightenment.
IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting
abridgement of free expression and free access to ideas.
V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age,
background, or views.
VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve
should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs and
affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.
VII. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and
confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and
protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally
identifiable information.

The Orlando Public Library recognizes that some Library materials are controversial and that an
item may offend some patrons. The Library expects each user to determine the appropriateness
of the materials they select. Selection of materials by the Library does not mean endorsement of
the contents or the views expressed in those materials. Obscene materials are not purchased. The
latest court proceedings and definitions will be used to determine appropriateness.

Library users may complete a “Request for Review of Library Materials” form when concerned
over a specific item. Completed forms are directed to the appropriate Division Head and shared
with the Director. Appointed staff will evaluate the request and the material concerned. In all
cases, customers will receive a written response.

Collection Maintenance and Weeding

The Collection Development Policy demonstrates what, why, and how materials are selected at
the Orlando Public Library. To ensure that the library collection is meeting patron needs, the
Library is diligent in evaluating the collection on a regular basis. Evaluation of the collection is a
continuing process aimed at maintaining an active and useful collection. Essential materials are

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updated and titles that are superseded, outdated, physically worn, or no longer in demand are
removed on an ongoing basis. Removal of an item from the collection and the replacement of
withdrawn materials are based on the guidelines included in this document. It is the
responsibility of the Collection Development staff to discontinue formats as market trends
dictate, and materials in good condition are given to the Friends of the Library for book sales or
sold from any Library location. The following factors will be considered when evaluating
materials for acquisition:

 Potential use by patrons

 Patron requests for materials
 Reputations of the author, editor, publisher and/or producer
 Currency of materials
 Longevity and content value
 Availability of alternative formats or sources
 Cost, including continuing and indirect costs
 Format and technical support
 Physical quality
 Available space

Weeding or removal of materials that are withdrawn from Orlando Public Library’s collection is
necessary to make room or shelf space for new or current materials in those subject areas
determined by the needs assessment. To ensure that the best and most relevant materials are
available to users and meeting patrons’ needs, the following factors must be considered:

 Publication date of material

 Circulation numbers of the item
 Last time the material was checked out
 Condition of material
 Physical/shelf space
 Number of copies of the material
 If any newer editions are available
 Current appropriateness of the item and content
 Relevancy in today’s climate and Library’s collection
 Potentially outdated information
 Geographical changes since time of publication

Depending on the condition of the materials withdrawn from the collection, most weeded
materials will be given to the Friends of the Library bookstore on the third floor of the Orlando
Public Library for sale.

Gift Policy and Procedures

The Orange County Library System (OCLS) welcomes all gifts and donations from individuals
and organizations, including books and other library materials, gifts of money and marketable
securities, and gifts in kind. The purpose of the Gift Policy and Procedures is to outline what

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gifts and donations are acceptable and how they will be handled upon receipt. All gifts and
donations are accepted with the understanding that the Library becomes the owner of those gifts
and donations going forward. The Library reserves the right to sell, trade, and/or dispose of gifts
and determine all other considerations relating to their use or display. Generally, gifts may not be
accepted if the donor wishes to place any limitations or restrictions on their use or disposal.
(https://www.ocls.info/sites/default/files/GiftPolicyRevision2006.pdf)

Materials the Library Accepts:

 Books
 Audio Books
 Vinyl Records
 VHS
 CDs
 DVDs
 Monthly Magazines
 Textbooks (Less than 2 years old)
 Donations should be gently used, clean and in good condition

Materials the Library Cannot Accept:

 Books that are dirty, moldy, water damaged or contain excessive writing or highlighting.
As a general rule: if you would not purchase it in its current condition, it is not accepted.
 Weekly magazines
 Textbooks (published more than 2 years ago)
 Encyclopedias
 More than 5 copies of any one title because of space limitations.
 Homemade copies of any type of media or commercial software that is not packaged with
a book for legal reasons.

Procedures for the Gift of Books and Other Library Materials:

Donated materials are expected to meet the same standards of quality and relevance to the
collection as materials selected for purchase by the Library. Accordingly, gifts are evaluated in
light of the following criteria:

 Ability to add depth or breadth to the existing collection

 Consistency with the Collection Development Policy
 Physical condition of material
 Currency and relevancy of material to the collection

Upon receipt, the Library will provide a written acknowledgement of the gift if desired.

The Library cannot use materials in certain subject areas which may be dated or in certain
formats which may not be considered sellable in the bookstore. Such materials may not be
accepted by the Library as a donation. Other materials which may be refused are materials which
show signs of damage, mold or infestation. Materials not selected for addition to the collection

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may be eligible for sale in the Friends of the Library Bookstore and Branches. Proceeds from
these sales are returned to the Library as financial support for Library initiatives and projects.

Requests to have materials temporarily housed in the Library (i.e., materials that are not outright
gifts) will be considered on a case by case basis. Such requests will not be honored unless their
benefit to the community as determined by the Library Director outweighs the administrative
procedures and costs required to service them.

Procedures for Gifts of Money & Marketable Securities:

Gifts of money and marketable securities are always welcome. Such gifts are referred to the
Community Relations department of Orlando Public Library. Monetary gifts of $25 or more will
be acknowledged with a letter from the Library.

Larger bequests may be made to the Library to establish a permanent endowment. A gift of
$10,000 or more can fund such an endowment for technology, children’s programming, or
various parts of the collection. Generally, the principal would not be spent but the earnings
would be used to support the designated service.

Procedure for Gifts in Kind:

All other gifts including equipment, furniture, artwork, antiques, and real estate will be accepted
or rejected after consultation with the Library Director. Factors including suitability to the
Library’s mission, décor, condition, and availability of space will be considered.

Replacements

Orange County Library System (OCLS) patrons borrow over 13,000,000 items per year. In an
effort to assure that the fullest variety of materials are available for its users, the Library
implements fines as encouragement for prompt return of materials in their appropriate condition.
Replacement cost is the responsibility of the patron having lost or damaged library material on
his or her account. In the case of children under the age of 18, responsibility lies with the parent
or guardian listed on the child’s account. Replacement fees are incurred in addition to any fine
that may have accumulated. For customer convenience, the Library provides notices to patrons
informing them of upcoming due dates and pending fees or fines to their accounts.

Fines for overdue materials are $.25 per item per day and must be returned prior to their due date
or before closing on the due date to avoid overdue fines. If an item is returned damaged or with a
missing part, the patron may be charged for the replacement cost of the item and a $5 handling
fee. The $5 non-refundable handling charge will be assessed when any item is returned missing
the case, cover, labels, and tags, as well as when an item is returned missing a disc or video.
Additionally, if the missing part is returned within 30 days, any overdue fines that may have
accumulated will be charged. If the missing part is not returned within 30 days, the account will
be charged for the cost of the item unless the item is a CD book. For CD books, if the missing
part is not returned within 30 days, the account will be charged a $30 replacement fee.

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Within one month of payment, if the Library item is returned in good condition and receipts
presented, a partial refund may be issued. In an effort to control the quality and content of the
collection the Library does not accept replacement copies in lieu of payment for damaged or lost
materials.

While patrons are not charged for normal wear and tear of library material, the Library reserves
the right to declare returned materials damaged or in need of repair and assess any fees or
replacement costs upon receipt. Damage fees may vary depending on the extent of damage up to
the full replacement cost of the item in question. Conditions that do not constitute normal wear
and tear include but are not limited to the following:

 Mold, damp, or wet materials

 Missing parts, covers, pages, labels, barcodes, tags, etc.
 Damage by food stains or questionable residue
 Highlighting, marking, drawing, pen marks, etc.
 Bugs or any sign of infestation in returned materials

Delinquent accounts may be referred to a collection agency.

Special Collections

The Orlando Public Library houses a variety of Special Collections, including the Local Authors
section and the Disney Collection. Trained Special Collection Librarians strive to collect,
maintain, and preserve items of local interest and preserve Florida’s rich history and culture. The
Special Collections department can be found in the basement of the Orlando Public Library
adjacent to Acquisitions and Special Services.

The popular Disney Collection located on the fourth floor of the Orlando Public Library is made
up of official documents, photographic prints, records, pamphlets, blueprints, architectural notes,
and other related materials associated with the building and growth of Walt Disney World in
Orlando, Florida. Patrons enjoy sifting through the files, flipping through the binders, and
accessing the historical documentation on microfilm. For this reason, the Library continues to
build the collection and streamline the organization of the materials moving forward.

The “Local Author” collection is also available in support of local authors who reside in Florida.
One copy of the item can be donated for consideration to be added permanently to the collection.
The item cannot be returned if the Library does not add it to the collection following the current
gift policy.

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 References

American Library Association. (2019). Library Bill of Rights. Retrieved from

http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill

Denver Public Library. (2019). Collection Development Policy. Retrieved from

https://www.denverlibrary.org/content/collection-development-policies

Friends of the Orange County Library System. (n.d.). Donation Guidelines. Retrieved from

https://oclsfriends.info/donate/donation-guidelines/

Gregory, V.L. (2019). Collection Development and Management for 21st Century Library

Collections: An Introduction [Second Edition]. Chicago: ALA Neal-Schuman. Print.

Institute of Museum and Library Services. (2013-2014). Digital Inclusion Survey Interactive

Map. Retrieved from https://digitalinclusion.umd.edu/content/interactive-map

Madison Public Library. (2019). Collection Development. Retrieved from

https://www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/policies/collection-development

Orange County Library System. (2006, May 11). Gift Policy. Retrieved from

https://www.ocls.info/sites/default/files/GiftPolicyRevision2006.pdf

Orange County Library System. (2012, July 12). Materials Management Policy. Retrieved from

https://www.ocls.info/sites/default/files/MaterialManagementPolicyReaffirmedJul2012.p

df

Orange County Library System. (2019, June 26). Budgets for the Fiscal Year Ending September

30, 2019. Retrieved from https://www.ocls.info/sites/default/files/BudgetFY2020.pdf

Orange County Library System. (2019). Fees & Fines. Retrieved from https://www.ocls.info/faq-

topic/fees-fines

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The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County. (2019). Policies – Collection

Development. Retrieved from

https://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/policies/collectiondevelopment.html

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LIS 6511: Collection Development and Maintenance
Part B: Action Plan
Due: October 18, 2019
Crystal Stephenson

Orlando Public Library Action Plan

Action Plan:

The action plan moving forward for the Orlando Public Library will elaborate on general and
specific criteria for selection of materials for the collection. Aided by the Library’s needs
assessment and guided by the Collection Development Policy, efforts have been made to
enhance areas of the collection as indicated for the target audiences identified, as the Library
strives to offer the most relevant and current materials available to the service community.

Evaluation Criteria:

General Criteria:

The Orlando Public Library strives to select the best materials based on their suitability for
addition to the current collection. All items selected have been reviewed for appropriateness and
aligned with user demand according to the needs assessment. Collection development staff have
consulted a variety of professional sources to ensure that selections are as unbiased as possible
and representative of many points of view. To implement this, selection teams have been
designated to review materials in an effort to counterbalance any potential or inherent bias
among Library staff. When considering the target audiences as identified in the Collection
Development Policy, many selections contain controversial content associated with social issues
of homelessness, addiction, and recovery, but no materials will be excluded from the collection
based on these sensitive topics, including those of race, religion, gender, sexual preference, or
politics.

Guiding the selection process is, first and foremost, the user needs and demands as evidenced by
the needs assessment. This includes legal reference and job-seeking materials and informational
DVDs. In lieu of Interlibrary Loan services, the Orlando Public Library offers a Request-a-Title
feature for patrons, however the Library’s target audiences do not frequently utilize this tool.
Statistics were pulled from reference interviews and patron inquiries, circulation numbers, key
informants, and community assessments in gathering information for the needs assessment.
Holdings of selected items were processed through WorldCat to compare with neighboring
libraries’ collections. To gauge public opinion, Library staff consulted Goodreads and Amazon.
Professional reviews and awards lists were also integral to the selection process from sources
like Booklist, H.W. Wilson, and Baker & Taylor, just to name a few.

Cost is naturally a determinant when considering titles and quantity. While the Orlando Public
Library’s budget increased for the fiscal year, staff sought quality over quantity in carefully
making their selections. Furthermore, the longevity or lasting impact of materials and their
content were considered. Many items selected are in DVD format as a convenient method of

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information retrieval for the identified target audience. Collection development staff has verified
with IT that current computer access and availabilities are adequate in handling an increase in
DVD usage on site. However, it is advised that Library public computers and equipment be
reevaluated in the near future.

Specific Criteria:

Taking a closer look at the current collection and selection of additional materials requires a
consideration of the item’s currency. Library staff looked to publication dates of potential
materials and sought to exclude any materials published or produced prior to 2000 to ensure
relevancy. Reputation of the author, editor, producer, and/or publisher were all reviewed during
selection. While personal controversies do not sway the consideration for selection, professional
experience, recommendation, and industry reputation does. In the rare case that an author, editor,
publisher, and/or producer is found to be unreliable in their content or industry actions, the item
was inevitably rejected from addition to the collection.

Of utmost importance in considering materials for the Library’s collection is grammatical

correctness. In most cases, this is usually an issue when reviewing special collection materials
for the Local Authors section. However, any material considered for the collection must adhere
to correct grammar, proper organization of thought, well-presented and written, and accurately
annotated.

The DVDs selected for addition to the collection must follow the same or similar criterion,
including currency, reputation of production, professional review or opinion, and appropriateness
of script and content. Used DVDs will not be purchased for fear of digital issues or excessive
scratches. The information contained therein must be relevant to user needs as identified in the
needs assessment and content must be appropriate for public view on-site.

Annotated Bibliography:

American Reference Books Annual (ARBA). (2019, Oct 16). Retrieved September 29, 2019, from
http://www.arbaonline.com
The ARBAonline is a comprehensive, authoritative database for quality reviews of print
and electronic reference work, which is the subject area the Library is currently focused
on enhancing. Featuring more than 19,500 reviews of reference works, this database is an
optimal choice and selection guide for staff considering the most up-to-date, relevant, and
quality materials to add to the collection.

Book Review Digest. (2019, March). Ipswich, Mass: H.W. Wilson. Retrieved September 29,
2019, from https://www.hwwilsoninprint.com/book_review_digest.php
H.W. Wilson publishes database and reference resources for libraries, including this vital
tool that provides quality reviews by experts on a wide range of topics, as well as
excerpts, citations, and descriptive summaries. With coverage of over 5,000 books
reviewed by over 100 publications in the previous year, this invaluable resource will
inevitably guide Library staff in their selection process.

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Booklist. (2019). Retrieved September 29, 2019, from https://www.booklistonline.com
Published by the American Library Association, Booklist is a premier review source,
guiding librarians in their selections and collection development needs with over 8,000
recommended-only reviews of books, audiobooks, and reference sources each year.
Booklist Online offers more than 200,000 book reviews for librarians and includes book
awards lists and an easy user interface to locate materials of interest.

BookWire. (2019). Retrieved September 29, 2019, from https://bookwire.com/Home

Produced by Bowker, BookWire is a general-review source online containing reviews
and descriptions of books and links to possible sellers. With an easy user interface, the
list of topics is vast, but most importantly includes reference, social sciences, and law
guides the Library has identified for selection per the needs assessment.

Books in Print. (2019). Retrieved September 29, 2019, from https://www.booksinprint.com

Produced by R. R. Bowker, a ProQuest affiliate, Books in Print offers trusted and
authoritative sources of bibliographic information powered by innovative search,
discovery and collection development tools designed to streamline the acquisition
process.

Collection Development and Evaluation Section (CODES). (2019). Retrieved September 29,
2019, from http://www.ala.org/rusa/sections/codes
CODES is considered to be the place in ALA for reference and user services librarians to
discuss the rapidly changing landscape of collection development and provides a number
of awards lists featuring outstanding books and reference works, including Notable
Books for Adults and the CODES List.

DVDs for Schools. (2019). Retrieved September 28, 2019, from

https://www.dvdsforschools.com
The company’s mission is to provide the best and most relevant educational DVDs for
schools and libraries. This is a helpful source for selecting appropriate informational
DVDs for the collection for all ages including adults with varying reading levels and
learning abilities. MARC records are also available for items selected.

Edelweiss. (2019). Retrieved September 28, 2019, from https://www.edelweiss.plus and

http://www.abovethetreeline.com/library-services
This online resource provides library staff with book and author information, reviews,
and advanced reading copies. As it is intended for public libraries, the tools are ideal for
the Library’s use, like those featuring circulation trends, methods to maximize collection
budgets, category comparisons, benchmark against peer libraries, and easily identify
overstocked and understocked areas, creating an action plan that aligns with patron
demand.

Gale Literature: Book Review Index. (2019). Retrieved September 29, 2019, from
https://www.gale.com/c/literature-book-review-index

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 The Book Review Index is a benchmark reference for over 5.6 million reliable and
quality reviews of books, periodicals, audio books, and electronic media representing a
wide range of subjects, including social sciences, humanities, and business. The website
also offers a number of tools and features to assist librarians, including workflow and
citation tools and translation services.

Goodreads. (2019). Retrieved September 29, 2019, from https://www.goodreads.com

This social media website is a convenient way to stay abreast of readers’ trends and
includes the Goodreads Choice Awards lists for almost every genre. While not the most
authoritative source listed here, it is a valuable resource to review what real readers are
saying about items considered for selection.

Kirkus Reviews. (2019). Retrieved September 28, 2019, from https://www.kirkusreviews.com

While Kirkus offers a full suite of author services, Kirkus Reviews is an authoritative
source for industry professionals, featuring unbiased, critical recommendations, book
reviews, and Kirkus Prize awards, which naturally aids librarians and staff in the
selection process for the collection.

Library Journal (LJ). (2019). Retrieved September 29, 2019, from

https://www.libraryjournal.com
Library Journal reviews or evaluates over 7,000 books annually and hundreds of
audiobooks, videos, databases, and computer systems, all in an effort to lead library
professionals forward by identifying trends, best practices and innovations to invest in,
guiding purchasing decisions, and acting as an advocate for librarians. Their guidance
and resources are invaluable as the Library looks to the allocation budget and selections
moving forward.

Reference and User Services Association (RUSA). (2019). Outstanding Reference Sources.
Retrieved September 28, 2019, from https://rusaupdate.org/awards/outstanding-reference-
sources/
RUSA Update is a division of the American Library Association serving all types of
libraries in their reference, user services, adult readers advisory and collection
development needs. This network is designed to educate, empower, and inspire its
members who seek to serve their library users with the most relevant reference selections
in a continuously changing information society.

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 References

Gregory, V.L. (2019). Collection Development and Management for 21st Century Library

Collections: An Introduction [Second Edition]. Chicago: ALA Neal-Schuman. Print.

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LIS 6511: Collection Development and Maintenance
Part C: Selection of Materials
Due: October 18, 2019
Crystal Stephenson

Orlando Public Library Selection of Materials

Selection of Materials:

Selection Aids Used

The Orlando Public Library utilized a variety of references in the selection process for materials.
Some of the sources for books included Booklist, Book Review Digest, published by H.W.
Wilson, Edelweiss, the American Library Association (ALA), and Amazon.com. The needs
assessment indicated a user need for more reference and legal aid materials, so the Library
consulted a number of available databases, professional recommendations and reviews. The
Library also reviewed awards lists, like those available through the ALA, and Kirkus-starred
selections while finalizing the selection list of materials. General public opinion and reviews are
also vital to the selection process, so the Library consulted Goodreads for a well-rounded
understanding of public demand and reader opinion.

Recognizing a user trend in DVD circulation, particularly among the targeted audiences, the
Orlando Public Library reviewed a variety of sources for information materials in DVD format,
including PBS, DVDs for Schools, and Amazon.com. The DVD selections cover pertinent topics
for the target audiences, such as addiction, recovery, job seeking and resume building, and
interview skills. While the Library offers programs and services in these areas, many patrons find
the individually paced and private assistance easiest for them to work with.

Additionally, the Library utilized the services of Ingram and Baker & Taylor’s TS 360 tools in
the collection development process. TS 360 is an innovative selection and acquisition tool that
supports workflow, making print and digital titles easier to search and discover. Their Axis 360
is a similar tool for digital content. Likewise, Ingram offers collection development assistance
with programs tailored to meet the Library’s unique needs and curation services that promise a
broader or diversified collection, so this will be considered moving forward.

Finally, the Orlando Public Library staff referred to WorldCat to compare selected materials with
what neighboring libraries offered. This method helped staff to gauge whether they were on the
right track. If the title appears in neighboring libraries’ collections, but the Orlando Public
Library didn’t carry it or only had one copy, it was understood that the selection should be
ordered. If a title only appeared in the collection of a school or university library, careful
consideration was made about the appropriateness of the item. However, as much of what has
been identified for selection is reference material, it is possible that the item is deemed
appropriate for either type of library.

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Chosen Titles/Items to Add to the Collection

Based on the Orlando Public Library’s Needs Assessment and revised Collection Development
Policy, the Library collection development staff have narrowed down the following list of
materials consisting primarily of books and DVDs focused on legal aids for non-lawyers, job-
seeking reference and sources, and social issues revolving around homelessness, addiction, and
recovery.

The following chart is the final list of materials for selection within a $3,500 budget.

Title Author Publisher Date ISBN Format Price

The 2-Hour Search: Using

Technology to Get the Right Steve Dalton Ten Speed Press March 6, 2012 9781607741701 Paperback $6.67
Job Faster

Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Richard P. Kusserow, Office

Health Services for Homeless of Inspector General, U.S.
Scholar's Choice February 15, 2015 9781298042392 Paperback $15.75
Individuals - Scholar's Choice Dept of Health and Human
Edition Services

The Anonymous People Greg D. Williams Kino Lorber Films June 10, 2014 ASIN: B00JAGF9HE DVD $19.89

The Art of Listening Prayer:

Finding God's Voice Amidst Seth Barnes Praxis Press October 15, 2004 9780975430569 Paperback $9.90
Life's Noise

Dictionary of Legal Terms:

Definitions and Explanation Barrons Educational
Steven H. Gifis November 1, 2015 9781438005126 Paperback $9.99
for Non-Lawyers, Fifth Series; Fifth Edition
Edition
GED Study Guide 2019 All
Subjects: GED Preparation
APEX Test Prep APEX Test Prep April 16, 2019 9781628456271 Paperback $21.84
2019 Test Prep & Practive
Test Questions

GED Test Prep 2019: 2

Practice Tests & Proven Caren Van Slyke Kaplan Publishing December 4, 2018 9781506239422 Paperback $14.99
Strategies (Kaplan Test Prep)

Standard Deviants, No-

Get That Job DVD Cellebellum Corporation July 23, 2002 158198605x DVD $6.39
Brainers

A Guide for the Homeless:

Skills for Surviving the Tobias Moore SOHM Publishing March 28, 2018 9780985167295 Paperback $6.95
Streets

Homeless but Human: Life in

Rich Hebron Blue Byron Books October 28, 2018 9781732688209 Paperback $14.99
a Shelter

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How to be Homeless, Thrive
& Recover: The Homeless Amazon Digital Services
Anna Nonnim September 29, 2014 ASIN: B00O2G091I Kindle $4.99
Survival Guidebook for LLC
Individuals or Families
Lawyer's Decoded: Essential
Knowledge for Saving Legal Greenhouse
Melody Kramer December 9, 2018 9781732201200 Paperback $17.95
Money & Reducing Legal Publishing
Hassles

The Little Black Book of

Tony Lyons Skyhorse May 3, 2016 9781510704152 Hardcover $12.99
Lawyer's Wisdom

Lose the Resume, Land the

Gary Burnison Wiley Publishing February 13, 2018 9781119475200 Paperback $17.62
Job

NOVA: Addiction DVD Sarah Holt PBS Distribution January 8, 2019 9781531708153 DVD $14.87

The Outlier Approach: How

to Triumph in Your Career as Kevin Hong KB Media Group March 27, 2018 9780692194874 Paperback $12.16
a Nonconformist

Physical Disability and

Omnigraphics,
Rehabilitation Sourcebook, Angela L. Williams October 2019 9780780817654 Hardcover $45.00
Incorporated
First Edition

PTSD and Coping with Omnigraphics,

Angela L. Williams November 2019 9780780817678 Hardcover $85.00
Trauma Sourcebook Incorporated

Heinerth Productions,
Real Sobriety DVD Jill Heinerth August 1, 2009 ASIN: B002J9F9GA DVD $13.99
Inc.

Represent Yourself in Court:

Go Prose, Save Money, and Richard Campbell Minute Help Press July 11, 2011 9781500955755 Paperback $5.75
Win!

Secrets: Landing and Keeping

Learning Zone Xpress Learning Zone Xpress 2010 1571759786 DVD $49.95
a Job DVD

Standard Deviants School NB

Standard Deviants, No-
Interviewing 1: Getting Ready Cellebellum Corporation December 14, 2004 631865016556 DVD $19.95
Brainers
DVD

Standard Deviants School NB

Standard Deviants, No-
Interviewing 2: Putting Your Cellebellum Corporation December 14, 2004 631865016563 DVD $19.95
Brainers
Best Foot Forward DVD

Standard Deviants School NB

Standard Deviants, No-
Resume & Cover Letter 1: Cellebellum Corporation December 14, 2004 631865016532 DVD $15.99
Brainers
Basic Layout DVD

Standard Deviants School NB

Standard Deviants, No-
Resume & Cover Letter 2: Cellebellum Corporation December 14, 2004 631865016532 DVD $15.99
Brainers
Standing Out DVD

This Emotional Life DVD Matt Boatright-Simon PBS Distribution March 2, 2010 ASIN: B002Y7ZELW DVD $9.23

Tomorrow Will Be Different:

Three Rivers Press,
Love, Loss, and the Fight for Sarah McBride March 5, 2019 9781524761486 Paperback $8.55
Reprint Edition
Trans Equality

Treating People Well Lea Berman, Jeremy Bernard Simon & Schuster February 2018 9781471168208 Paperback $32.99

Turn Compassion to Action Denise Wendle Denise Hall Wendle March 2020 9781732172104 Paperback $17.00

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Purchasing of Items

The Orlando Public Library will purchase the selected materials through a variety of sources,
including Baker & Taylor, Ingram, Amazon, and PBS affiliates or DVDs for Schools websites
for DVD selections. While Amazon tends to be the most cost-effective retailer, Baker & Taylor
and Ingram both offer discounted prices when subscribed to their services or materials are
purchased in bulk. Baker & Taylor offers a dynamic, state-of-the-art ordering system for ease
and convenience, which according to fellow librarian reviews, provides excellent fill rates and
faster fulfillment and accuracy than other vendors. DVDs, in comparing the aforementioned
sources, are generally cheapest through Amazon, so this will be the desired retailer for that
format.

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 References

Amazon. (2019). Retrieved September 29, 2019, from https://www.amazon.com

Baker & Taylor. (2019). A Follett Company. Retrieved September 29, 2019, from

https://www.baker-taylor.com

Booklist. (2019, Jan 1). Booklist Editors’ Choice: Adult Books, 2018. Retrieved September 29,

2019, from https://www.booklistonline.com/Booklist-Editors-Choice-Adult-

Books/pid=9713348

DVDs for Schools. (2019). By Subject. Cerebellum Corporation. Retrieved September 29, 2019,

from https://www.dvdsforschools.com/default.asp

Ingram. (2019). Ingram Book Group LLC. Retrieved September 28, 2019, from

https://www.ingramcontent.com

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