The acquisitions issue in the small public library

Abstract

One of the hardest hit victims of the current economic squeeze has been the small public library. As costs continue to rise and funds remain limited, the importance of spending each acquisitions dollar wisely becomes ever more apparent. Traditionally, two alternatives have been proposed as solutions to the problem: (a) develop a well-rounded collection, and (b) cater to popular demand. The author outlines the pitfalls of carrying either alternative to extremes and offers some suggestions for steering a judicious middle course.