Example SOPs: Collection Development Librarian

Collection Development Librarian SOPs

Creating Standard Operating Procedures for your Collection Development Librarian work can be difficult and take time. That’s why we’ve created these example Collection Development Librarian SOPs so you can jumpstart your SOP creation process. We want to help you set up your Library systems and processes by taking these sample SOPs and building out your own SOPs template library. By having all your Library procedures in one place, your team will have the information they need at all times. Let’s look at some Collection Development Librarian SOP examples.

Collection Development Librarian SOP Examples

1. Collection Development Policy: The purpose of this SOP is to outline the principles and guidelines for the selection and acquisition of library materials. It defines the scope of the library’s collection and ensures that it aligns with the needs and interests of the library’s users. The Collection Development Librarian is responsible for developing and maintaining this policy. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Acquisitions Procedure and the Weeding and Deselection Policy.

2. Acquisitions Procedure: This SOP details the process for acquiring new library materials, including books, journals, electronic resources, and audiovisual materials. It outlines the steps involved in identifying, ordering, receiving, and cataloging new items. The Collection Development Librarian is responsible for overseeing this procedure, working closely with the Acquisitions Librarian and the Technical Services Department. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Vendor Selection and Evaluation Process and the Budget Allocation Procedure.

3. Weeding and Deselection Policy: The purpose of this SOP is to establish guidelines for the systematic removal of outdated, damaged, or underutilized materials from the library’s collection. It ensures that the collection remains relevant, up-to-date, and space-efficient. The Collection Development Librarian, in collaboration with subject specialists and the Technical Services Department, is responsible for implementing this policy. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Collection Assessment and Evaluation Procedure and the Donation Acceptance Policy.

4. Collection Assessment and Evaluation Procedure: This SOP outlines the methods and criteria used to assess the quality, relevance, and usage of library materials. It includes regular evaluations of the collection’s strengths and weaknesses, identifying areas for improvement and potential gaps. The Collection Development Librarian, along with subject specialists and the Assessment and Evaluation Committee, is responsible for conducting these assessments. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Usage Statistics and Analysis Protocol and the User Needs Assessment Process.

5. Usage Statistics and Analysis Protocol: The purpose of this SOP is to establish a systematic approach for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting usage data of library materials. It helps in evaluating the effectiveness of the collection and making informed decisions regarding resource allocation. The Collection Development Librarian, in collaboration with the Technical Services Department and the Assessment and Evaluation Committee, is responsible for implementing this protocol. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Data Privacy and Confidentiality Policy and the Reporting and Presentation Guidelines.

6. Interlibrary Loan (ILL) Procedure: This SOP outlines the process for requesting and providing access to materials not available in the library’s collection through interlibrary loan services. It includes procedures for requesting, tracking, and delivering materials to users. The Collection Development Librarian, in coordination with the Interlibrary Loan Librarian and the Circulation Department, is responsible for overseeing this procedure. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Copyright Compliance Policy and the Resource Sharing Agreement.

7. Digital Resource Licensing and Management Policy: The purpose of this SOP is to establish guidelines for the acquisition, licensing, and management of digital resources, including e-books, databases, and online journals. It ensures compliance with copyright laws, license agreements, and usage restrictions. The Collection Development Librarian, in collaboration with the Electronic Resources Librarian and the Technical Services Department, is responsible for implementing this policy. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Usage Monitoring and Reporting Procedure and the License Renewal and Cancellation Process.

8. Special Collections and Archives Management Procedure: This SOP outlines the procedures for acquiring, preserving, and providing access to special collections and archival materials. It includes guidelines for appraisal, arrangement, description, and digitization of unique and rare materials. The Collection Development Librarian, in collaboration with the Special Collections Librarian and the Archives Department, is responsible for overseeing this procedure. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Preservation and Conservation Policy and the Access and Use Guidelines for Special Collections.

9. Outreach and Collaboration Protocol: The purpose of this SOP is to establish guidelines for engaging with the library’s user community, other libraries, and external stakeholders. It includes strategies for promoting the collection, organizing events, and fostering partnerships. The Collection Development Librarian, in coordination with the Outreach and Engagement Librarian and the Public Relations Department, is responsible for implementing this protocol. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Marketing and Promotion Strategy and the Collaboration Agreement Template.

10. Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Plan: This SOP outlines the procedures and protocols to be followed in the event of a disaster, such as a fire, flood, or natural calamity, to protect the library’s collection. It includes guidelines for emergency response, salvage, and recovery of damaged materials. The Collection Development Librarian, in collaboration with the Library Director and the Facilities Management Department, is responsible for developing and implementing this plan. This SOP may reference other related SOPs such as the Emergency Evacuation Procedure and the Insurance Claims Process

Collection Development Librarian SOP Templates

Looking for SOP templates for your Collection Development Librarian work? We’ve got you covered. You can build out your company SOPs using the sample SOP information above (added to our template) or our team can put together a starter SOPs template based on your Collection Development Librarian work. Get in touch if you’ve got questions about the quickest way to build out your Library SOPs library.