The Evolution of Technology in the Management of Noncirculating Library Collections

Abstract

This article discusses the evolution of technology in the management of a noncirculating library collection in an academic library. Noncirculating collections, such as reference collections, require special handling and record keeping, and their usage cannot be tracked through the library's circulation system. This article traces the evolution of technology in the management of a reference collection that had been maintained manually with a card shelflist and a separate card file for records for binding and other processing. Management procedures were automated with database management and spreadsheet software and with a portable barcode reader for tracking reshelving. Database management software automated the records used in such normal collection management as integration of new reference materials and periodic weeding and shifting and for major changes in the reference collection, including the integration of a government documents reference collection into the general reference collection and the subsequent need for the reduction of the size of the collection by one-third as part of a departmental relocation. A portable barcode reader and spreadsheet software were used for the tracking of shelving and usage. The future of the management of noncirculating collections in a Web-based environment is also discussed.