Resources for Collection Development and Community Challenges

Jan 19, 2022

Man's hand pulling book off bookshelfFrom the Texas State Library and Archives Commission

In response to requests from librarians looking for professional resources on collections development policies and responding to content challenges, Texas State Library and Archives Commission staff have compiled a list of resources. These include common professional tools with information on policy development, reconsideration procedures, tracking questions and concerns, and professional support.

Libraries of all types create their collections development policies and procedures to address the unique needs of their communities, schools, and institutions. These policies, like all library policies, are under the jurisdiction of the library and its governing local authority.

Online course: Collection Development Policy: this self-paced course from WebJunction, developed by the Idaho Commission for Libraries, provides a broad overview of how to write a collection development policy, and includes a section on reconsideration. WebJunction is free to use for all Texas library workers, but requires creating a free account.

Webinar: Hooray for Freedom! Part Two: Developing Policies in Support of Ethical Practice: this archived webinar from WebJunction provides guidance on assessing library policies, and includes a section on selection and reconsideration policies.

Webjunction offers additional webinars and training for professional library workers. Go to WebJunction, which is free to library workers, to learn more.

ALA Selection & Reconsideration Policy Toolkit for Public, School, & Academic Libraries: Guide to creating a collection development policy that includes reconsideration procedures.

What is Intellectual Freedom?: This is a brochure from AASL with concise explanations about censorship, internet filters, challenges, online and print resources.

The American Library Association (ALA) Office of Intellectual Freedom also provides support and resources to librarians. Inquiries can be directed via email to oif@ala.org or via phone at (312) 280-4226.

If you have a question about this or any other article, please contact us at statelibrary@wyo.gov

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