|
The
Library Director delegates the responsibility for the selection
of books and other materials to a Materials Selection Committee
composed of librarians. Each committee member is responsible
for one or more subject areas or special collections. Overall
development of the Library's collection is supervised by
the Collection Development Coordinator, who serves as Chairman
of the Materials Selection Committee. Other staff members
and library patrons may suggest materials for consideration
by the Committee.
The
Materials Selection Committee attempts to find critical
reviews, which are the best source for evaluating an author's
expertise on the subject and the content, style, format
and value of the book. A favorable review or recommendation
from a recognized reviewing source or a librarian is necessary
before fiction or material on a controversial subject is
selected. The Library purchase best-sellers and anticipated
best-sellers or popular titles in multiple copies as determined
by popular demand and advance publicity. Books written to
trade on sensationalism usually are not added. If a book
appears on the best seller list and there is a substantial
citizen demand, the book may be selected without a favorable
review. Materials on all sides of topical issues may be
found in the Library so that citizens may be fully informed.
Citizens
are welcome to offer suggestions or recommendations for
additions to the Library's collection.
The
Collection Development Coordinator is responsible for overall
book selection and collection development for the library
system and assists in developing and revising policies concerning
these matters.
The
West Haven Public Library subscribes to the American Library
Association's Library
Bill of Rights and the Freedom
to Read Statement. Materials which have been selected
or excluded on the principles indicated in the Library's
Materials Selection Policy may be re-evaluated upon special
request.
|
