What criteria do consumer health librarians use to develop library collections? a phenomenological study.

Janet Papadakos,Pamela Catton,Chiara Cipolat Mis,Michelle Snow,Alaina Cyr,Valeria Raivich,David Wiljer,Mauro Mazzocut,Aileen Trang,Audrey Jusko Friedman

doi:10.3163/1536-5050.102.2.003

Abstract

The criteria for determining whether resources are included in consumer health library collections are summarized in institutional collection development policies (CDPs). Evidence suggests that CDPs do not adequately capture all of these criteria. The aim of this study was to describe the resource review experience of librarians and compare it to what is described in CDPs. A phenomenological approach was used to explore and describe the process. Four consumer health librarians independently evaluated cancer-related consumer health resources and described their review process during a semi-structured telephone interview. Afterward, these librarians completed online questionnaires about their approaches to collection development. CDPs from participating libraries, interview transcripts, and questionnaire data were analyzed. Researchers summarized the findings, and participating librarians reviewed results for validation. Librarians all utilized similar criteria, as documented in their CDPs; however, of thirteen criteria described in the study, only four were documented in CDPs. CDPs for consumer health libraries may be missing important criteria that are considered integral parts of the collection development process. A better understanding of the criteria and contextual factors involved in the collection development process can assist with establishing high-quality consumer health library collections.

Highlights

We would like to understand your evaluation of the pamphlets and your thought process that led you to decide on including or excluding the resource from your library collection
I will be asking you about the development of your library collection and about general selection guidelines and library policies that you may have
Does your library hold pamphlets or booklets and references of online resources? How do you find new resources to add to your library collection?

Summary

Introduction

The purpose of this research study is to learn about your review and selection process when developing your library collection. We are interested in studying your selection guidelines and collection development policies used to vet new material. The first part will take sixty minutes and will be focused on the four resources you received prior to this interview. We would like to understand your evaluation of the pamphlets and your thought process that led you to decide on including or excluding the resource from your library collection.

Results

Conclusion