Inventory: catalyst for collection development

Abstract

PurposeThe intent of this article is to show the direct outcomes of an inventory project, which served as the catalyst for collection development improvements.Design/methodology/approachAn inventory project was undertaken with a major emphasis on the outcomes derived from the inventory.FindingsSeveral types of problems were discovered, such as missing items, incorrect information (call numbers, collection codes, item types, etc. …), damaged materials, and weaknesses in the collection, which resulted in major improvements and changes in the development of the collection.Originality/valueThe results of the inventory project improved the accessibility of the collection to patrons by correcting many inconsistencies involving the shelving of materials, online records, call numbers, collection codes, item types, and bar codes. The location of missing items as well as identified areas of strengths and weaknesses assisted with collection development activities. The results of the project also provided an opportunity to hire a consulting firm to further assess the collection, which led to additional funds for supporting the collection. The single major benefit of the inventory process was that it provided the catalyst for instigating major changes in the curriculum collection development of the Teaching Resources Center.