Duplication of titles is determined by popularity and importance of the book. The materials budget, the existing collection, the limits of shelf space, and the availability of the work elsewhere are further limitations on the selection of materials. In order to facilitate a relevant collection of resources, the collection must be maintained by evaluating what has been obtained and withdrawing items no longer appropriate. The withdrawing of outdated or superceded materials is as crucial to the maintenance of a useful and viable collection as is the selection process. Frequency of circulation, community interests, and availability of newer and more valid materials are of prime consideration.
Local history is an exception.
Fiction, once popular but no longer in demand, is discarded, as are nonfiction materials which are determined to be no longer accurate or current. They are considered with the explicit understanding that such factors as duplication, merit, lack of community interest, processing costs, physical condition of the materials, or inadequate shelf space may prevent their addition to the collection or permanent retention on the shelves. Gifts and donations are accepted with the understanding that the Library may, at any time, discard them or offer them for sale through the Library Book Sale program. Guidelines for gifts and donated materials that will be accepted for consideration are located in the appendix and are available at the library.