Weeding (library)

Weeding is the systematic removal of resources from a library based on selected criteria. It is the opposite of selecting material, though the selection and de-selection of material often involve the same thought process. Weeding is a vital process for an active collection because it ensures the collection stays current, relevant, and in good condition. Weeding should be done on a continuous, on-going basis.^[1]

Reasons to weed

A "well-maintained, well-pruned collection is far more useful than one filled with out-of-date or unused materials."^[2] Weeding a physical collection has many benefits:^[1]

• Space is preserved to add relevant materials.
• Patrons are able to access useful material quickly, and the librarian can direct them to information more easily.
• The collection is more reputable because it is current.
• The librarian can easily see the strengths and weaknesses of the collection.
• Materials are of good quality and physical condition.

With many collections having a digital component, space is not an issue for concern. However, this does not mean digital collections should not be weeded. "Clearing out unused materials makes a patron’s searching experience better by reducing the number of old and irrelevant records the patrons must wade through in their search results to find what they really want."^[2] The digital collection, like the physical collection, should be kept current and easily accessible.

Weeding criteria

Weeding should be addressed in a library's Collection Development Policy, and the criteria should be outlined. The following list outlines some considerations for weeding resources.^[1]

• Poor Content
  • Content is outdated or obsolete
  • Content is biased, racist, or sexist
  • Content is irrelevant to patron needs (or not being used in a school's curriculum)
  • Content is too mature/immature for patrons (especially important for school libraries)
• Poor Condition
  • Resource has irreparable damage (torn pages, broken spines)
  • Resource is dirty or smelly
  • Resource would not survive further circulation
• Poor Circulation
  • Resource is not being used by patrons in a certain timeframe
• Other Considerations
  • Multiple copies that are not needed
  • Enough other resources on a particular subject
  • Should the item be replaced and the cost of replacement
  • Visual appeal of item (including artwork)

Weeding Issues

Weeding may be viewed as controversial by community members. John N. Berry III has discussed these is his essay, "The Weeding War."^[3]

References

1. Larson, Jeanette (2008), CREW: A Weeding Manual for Modern Libraries, Revised and Updated (PDF), Austin, TX: Texas State Library and Archives Commission, retrieved October 7, 2014
2. Lehman, Kathleen, "Collection Development and Management", Library Resources & Technical Services, 58 (3): 169–177
3. Berry III, J. . (2013). "The Weeding War." Library Journal, 138(18), 10.