The periodical collection is designed to offer the public a wide range of current reading, and periodicals selected are those intended for the general reader. When technical subjects are considered, however, periodicals covering fairly broad subject areas are acquired, rather than those published for the academic and technical specialist. It is also a practical necessity in a large library to have as many copies of materials that are in heavy demand as the budget will allow. The goal of discarding is to maintain a useable collection that responds to the needs of the library patrons. The library must be user-oriented, that is, it should give its patrons what they want and need.
Studies suggest that the discard program can be a tool for increasing circulation.
The accumulation of unused materials can, for the public, obscure useful items. With an active discard program, the speed of access is increased. Books and other materials become worn-out, dirty, and dated. Discarding ensures that such items are replaced in order that the collection be kept current and in attractive condition. Badly printed works, including those with small print, dull or faded print, cramped margins, or poor illustrations.