Sample interview questions: How do you handle requests for adding or removing materials from a library’s collection based on changing user needs?
Sample answer:
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Establish a Collection Development Policy:
- Create a comprehensive collection development policy that outlines the library’s goals, objectives, and selection criteria.
- Regularly review and update the policy to ensure it aligns with evolving user needs and the library’s mission.
- Ensure that the policy addresses both adding and removing materials from the collection.
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Monitor User Needs:
- Conduct regular user surveys and collect feedback to identify changing user needs and interests.
- Analyze circulation statistics, interlibrary loan requests, and reference inquiries to identify trends and gaps in the collection.
- Stay updated with current trends in literature, research, and popular culture.
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Collaborate with Library Staff:
- Work closely with public service librarians, subject specialists, and other library staff to gather input on user needs.
- Encourage library staff to recommend materials for addition or removal from the collection.
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Evaluate Materials:
- Evaluate potential additions to the collection based on their relevance to the library’s mission, user needs, and collection development policy.
- Consider factors such as currency, accuracy, authority, and readability.
- Consult with subject matter experts, if necessary, to assess the quality and appropriateness of materials.
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Make Informed Decisions:
- Use objective criteria and professional judgment to make decisions about adding or removing materials from the collection.
- Consider the overall balance and diversity of the collection, as well as the librar… Read full answer
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