Research Libraries Group and OCLC memberships provide access to vast bibliographic databases and to efficient document delivery systems based on the holdings of North America's most eminent research collections. The selection of secondary works of criticism follows this pattern with stress on criticism of Russian literature in Russian, English, French and German. Secondary works on East European literatures other than Russian are purchased selectively. Translations from medieval versions of Slavic languages into their modern forms are considered on their own merits. English or other translations of primary works are referred selectively to the appropriate bibliographer.
Special emphasis is laid on supporting the study of nineteenth century literary movements.
Literary works published in the Soviet Union are purchased on a regular basis through Novye Knigi and various dealers' lists. Works of Western origin are widely collected. Textbooks are not normally acquired. Whenever possible, retrospective acquisitions are made to upgrade specific areas of the collection and to serve as replacements for books which have deteriorated or disappeared. Subjects and Levels of Collecting Definitions of collection levels are derived from the American Library Association's Guide for Written Collection Policy Statements , 1989.