2015 Charleston Library Conference

In 2013-14, James Madison University Libraries embarked on an endeavor to create a flexible, holistic model for developing, managing, and assessing collections. We began by focusing on qualitative and quantitative data to inform big-picture questions about whether collections were meeting evolving campus needs. The investigation also included an in-depth literature review, the launch of several pilot projects, and the construction of an evaluation rubric that encompasses all collections. Over the past two years a structured implementation has incorporated: the collapsing of siloed funds to allow collaborative selection across interdisciplinary fields; a revision of allocation models to reflect changing curricular needs; and a campus-wide continuing-resources review. Incorporating contemporary as well as traditional content development methods in this process was key, including consortial DDA programs, device-lending, curation of local digital collections, and hosting of campus research and open-access publications. Additionally, visually compelling collection “snapshots” were adopted, tailored to the needs of specific disciplines, to support subject librarians and faculty in understanding the scope, makeup, and use of collections in all formats. These combined efforts have culminated in a flexible collections assessment rubric, which analyzes and measures the “temperature” of the entirety of the collections. This rubric can be tailored by purpose, including specific needs of a discipline, evaluator, or audience. The result is a mechanism that enables the expression of a holistic value of collections to constituents, from administrators to faculty and students. JMU’s Director of Collections and Director of Acquisitions & Cataloging will share the journey and results of this project.