Subject Collection Development Guidelines

JMU Libraries supports James Madison University's Department of Geology and Environmental Science in the College of Science and Math with a collection that facilitates instruction and research, taking into consideration the department's diverse and comprehensive curriculum. The Geology and Environmental Science collection is developed in accordance with the department’s evolving undergraduate program, including the Bachelor of Science in Geology, Bachelor of Arts in Earth Science, and minors in Geology, Geophysics, Environmental Management, Environmental Studies, and Environmental Science. Acquisitions and collection management of Geology and Environmental Science materials also supports the library-wide mission of fostering environments that allow users to connect with ideas and information.

Collection Areas:

Guidelines

Materials are considered for their subject, curriculum relevance, authoritativeness, currency, and price. User requests and appropriateness for the entire collection are also key criteria for consideration.

• Primary emphasis is on current materials, preferably published within the past 20 years.
• Primary formats are print and electronic. Other formats are purchased selectively to support the Geology and Environmental Science curriculum. When deciding between print and electronic journal resources of comparable scope and information type, preference is given for electronic materials that facilitate accessibility. Electronic formats are notably favorable among science reference resources and periodical collections.
• Materials are acquired primarily from the United States.
• English-language materials are purchased almost exclusively.

Responsibilities

The responsibility of acquiring and managing Geology and Environmental Science collections primarily resides with the Geology and Environmental Science liaison librarian. The liaison librarian works with Geology and Environmental Science faculty within academic departments. Collection management activities are monitored and administered by JMU Libraries' Collection Development Committee, with expenditures authorized by the Dean of Libraries & Educational Technologies.

Updated July 2, 2012 by Yasmeen Shorish.

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