Standards for vision science libraries: 2014 revision.

Kristin Motte,J Chris Nims,Karen S Lamson,C Brooke Caldwell,Suzanne Ferimer

doi:10.3163/1536-5050.102.4.010

Abstract

This Association of Vision Science Librarians revision of the "Standards for Vision Science Libraries" aspires to provide benchmarks to address the needs for the services and resources of modern vision science libraries (academic, medical or hospital, pharmaceutical, and so on), which share a core mission, are varied by type, and are located throughout the world. Through multiple meeting discussions, member surveys, and a collaborative revision process, the standards have been updated for the first time in over a decade. While the range of types of libraries supporting vision science services, education, and research is wide, all libraries, regardless of type, share core attributes, which the standards address. The current standards can and should be used to help develop new vision science libraries or to expand the growth of existing libraries, as well as to support vision science librarians in their work to better provide services and resources to their respective users.

Highlights

Association of Vision Science Librarians (AVSL) recommends that vision science libraries (VSLs) have at least one active member in AVSL
Standards for this very specialized area of library service have evolved owing to the work of librarians who, since 1937, have been developing and refining standards for their libraries [4]
The responsibilities of the professional librarians should be the overall quality of the collection and services. This includes selection, acquisition, cataloging, maintenance, and de-selection. This includes providing reference assistance using print and electronic materials, and instruction in the use of the library and any resources, regardless of origin or format, that are available to its users

Summary

Introduction

Conclusions: The current standards can and should be used to help develop new vision science libraries or to expand the growth of existing libraries, as well as to support vision science librarians in their work to better provide services and resources to their respective users. Changes include recommended staffing and technology, and the addition of a section addressing online access to information.

Results

Conclusion