Working with Library Collections

Library support staff who work with collections assist with the processes that put library materials on the shelf or online; this work requires knowledge and understanding of publishers, vendors, preparing items for use, and caring for items in the collections. Working with Library Collections: An Introduction to Technical Service for Support Staff is a text for library support staff programs and an introductory reference manual for support staff who work in libraries.
This book will guide support staff to better:
· Know how to use an integrated library system and other appropriate online tools.
· Know the basic principles of collection development and management.
· Assist with decisions regarding selection, de-selection, retention, and replacement of all types of library resources.
· Know the basic principles, and can apply, the appropriate procedures to the processes that provide users with access to a wide variety of content.
· Know the various ways in which content, in multiple formats, is produced and distributed to libraries.
· Understand the value of resource sharing agreements and apply them to collection decisions.
· Know and use the recognized standard evaluative sources to assist with collection development.
· Know the principles and practices of cataloging materials.
· Know the principles and basic practices regarding the preservation of library resources.
· Apply appropriate methods and techniques for accurate preparation of library resources
· Can explain and apply policies regarding library collections.
The Library Support Staff series is aimed for staff that work in libraries and want to enhance their skills; college professors who teach library support staff instruction; and/or students who seek academic credit. Each book in the series addresses a specific course in an academic curriculum for library support staff. Content of each book in the series is aligned with American Library Association competencies for accredited programs and learning for library support staff (ALA-LSSC). The text is written in clear language with practical examples of how performance can contribute to exemplary library service.

Hali R. Keeler has been actively involved in library service for over 40 years. She retired in 2014 from her position as Director of the Bill Memorial Library, in Groton, CT, and she concurrently served as the coordinator for seven years of the Library Technology Assistant Certification Program at Three Rivers Community College, one of 47 such programs available in the US. An Adjunct Professor there since 1998, she teaches Introduction to Library Public Services, Introduction to Library Technical Services, and Library Management.