Programmed texts are not acquired. With the exception of those from Scientific American , reprints of selected journal articles are collected only if there is an obvious demand for the material and the Library does not own most of the originals. Reprints of monographs are acquired only if there is a current need for them, they are established classics not held at McGill or because the physical condition of the original edition is unsatisfactory for use. Technical reports are acquired only when specifically requested. The Library welcomes gifts of books and journals.
Criteria relating to language and subject coverage are broader than for purchased material.
We would, for example, accept collections of gift materials on horticulture, hunting, fishing and domestic animals. Older material is welcomed. The Library System's gift policy is used for journals, appraisal of materials and the issuance of tax receipts. Pamphlets are usually placed in covers, or occasionally plasticized, at the discretion of the Central Processing Unit. Reference books are usually bound or plasticized.