The Library has started our first comprehensive evaluation of the entire main print collection. This project will result in a significant reduction in the print collection which will make our collection more current, relevant, and inclusive; make our books more accessible by wheelchair, and in preparation for future library renovations.
Though this project involves deselecting physical materials to promote sustainable growth, the Library is firmly committed to ensuring that no community member loses access to any of the resources they require to do their work. Deselection of Library materials is simply the selection process in reverse, and is equally as important as acquisition for responsible stewardship of University resources and collections.
Through a combination of digital licensing, consortial partnerships, and our interlibrary loan program, we will ensure continuous access to relevant materials, both during and long after after this project’s completion.
If you have questions about the project, please contact Kathryn Johns-Masten, Collection Management Librarian or Sarah Weisman, Library Director.
Candidates for removal from the collection will be evaluated using criteria including circulation statistics, condition of the item, and outdated content. We also consider curricular relevance and availability of online access as factors when we decide to withdraw these items.
Current review criteria: Titles with zero to 1 use and with publication dates prior to 2011-2014 (depending on subject area).
Note: Materials purchased during the past 10-13 years (depending on subject area) are excluded from this review.
The community served by the Penfield Library is first and foremost the SUNY Oswego students and employees, and all materials acquired by the library will reflect the needs of this population. We support the resources surrounding and supporting classes to help SUNY Oswego students be successful. Due to space and financial limitations, the library cannot duplicate the collections and services of local public libraries.
The following lists are available until November 15, 2024:
Science (General) Q 2438 total titles - 1503 on review list
Mathematics and Computer Science QA 6001 total titles - 2844 on review list
Astronomy QB 1531 total titles - 926 on review list
Physics and Meteorology QC 3888 total titles - 2022 on review list
Chemistry QD 3021 total titles - 2451 on review list
Natural history - Biology QH 3370 total titles - 1679 on review list
Botany QK 1196 total titles - 543 on review list
All files are copyable to allow for easier sharing and adding comments/feedback. Select File then "Make a copy"
Librarians use a variety of ways to talk about removing items from the colleciton. The following terms all mean the same thing: