Collective Assessment

This text offers reference source indexes about the RLG Conspectus. "Collection Assessment" explains in detail why the Research Libraries Conspectus is the best collection development and assessment methodology available for acquisitions librarians. Experienced collection development librarians thoroughly and precisely define the RLG Conspectus and explore its origins and describe how librarians can use it effectively for consistent evaluation of total library collections in an individual or consortium environment. Chapters include in-depth discussions of pitfalls to avoid when using the RLG Conspectus and clear illustrations of its advantages compared to other collection development methodologies. This practical guide helps library administrators and librarians prepare for, plan, and implement a collection development or assessment program based on the widely used and proven RLG conspectus. Librarians adopting the Conspectus should find this book divided into two informative parts. The conspectus and all of its elements are first carefully examined; then authoritative contributors explore the use of the conspectus by specific libraries or groups of libraries. This readable and informative volume covers every aspect of the RLG Conspectus including a complete description and explanation; origins and reasons for its conception and an overview of its progress and development over the years; how and why the RLG Conspectus has been adopted by the Pacific Northwest Libraries, library consortia, and smaller academic, public school, or special libraries; practical recommendations from librarians who have used the conspectus; and an annotated bibliography for further reading. All academic and public librarians, library science instructors who teach collection development, acquisitions, serials, and administration, and librarian who are members of a consortium interested in cooperation, collection development, and resource sharing should find valuable guidelines for using the RLG Conspectus in "Collection Assessment".