The Deselection and Discarding Practices of Australian Public Libraries.
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| Title: | The Deselection and Discarding Practices of Australian Public Libraries. |
|---|---|
| Authors: | Hider, Philip1 (AUTHOR) phider@csu.edu.au |
| Source: | Journal of the Australian Library & Information Association. Jun2026, Vol. 75 Issue 2, p297-320. 24p. |
| Subject Terms: | *Deselection of library materials, *Public libraries, Collection management (Libraries), Library outreach programs |
| Abstract: | An online survey was distributed to Australian public libraries to investigate their current deaccessioning practices: 126 responded, representing 35.7% of libraries. Most libraries deselected books based on their condition, age, and (lack of) circulation, but while some libraries weeded systematically, others' deaccessioning was more ad hoc. Libraries also differed in the amount of weeding they undertook, due to different spatial and budgetary constraints, and the extent to which they prioritised currency and popularity over collection breadth. The ways libraries discarded weeded book stock likewise varied, although recycling, donating and selling, in some form or other, were all carried out by over half the libraries. Books were donated to welfare and social services, other libraries, charities, and other community groups, while book sale events were held in about a third of the libraries, typically about twice a year. The disposing of books could be challenging and time-consuming, however, and some respondents called for more collective solutions. 'Rehoming' was the generally preferred scenario, and can be viewed, especially when the books end up with non-users, as another form of outreach. The merits and drawbacks of the various approaches to deselection and disposal, as noted by respondents, are detailed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Education Research Complete |
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