Researcher: LEONIDA A. DELA CRUZ
Course: Master of Library Science
School: University of the
Subject Area: Deselection-Metro
Year of Graduation: 1993
Statement of the Problem
This study was aimed to explore the state of deselection process or weeding in selected academic libraries in Metro Manila. It sought to find out the nature and extent of weeding, the existence of deselection policies, if any, the deselection methods and criteria used, the methods of disposing the discarded stock and the problems encountered by the academic librarians in implementing the weeding process.
Methodology
The study used the descriptive survey method of research. A structured questionnaire was used as a tool in data collection. Eighteen academic libraries were surveyed.
Findings
1. All academic libraries surveyed practice weeding or deselection of library materials but only seven out of eighteen academic libraries follow a periodic weeding program.
2. Only twelve libraries have written weeding policies to guide the staff in weeding the collection.
3. The principal methods used in weeding are shelf-time period and shelf-scanning/stock revision.
4. The criteria used for weeding the book collections are unwanted/unused volumes, duplicate volumes, physically worn-out, age and use patterns of materials. The two primary criteria for weeding the periodical collection are duplicate copies and serials of the news magazine type.
5. The methods of disposing the discarded stock are: donate to other libraries, distribute to interested students, just store in stock room and throw away as trash.
6. Deselection is not a continuous or year-round activity in most of the academic libraries because of the following problems: a) lack of staff; b) lack of time; and 3) difficulty in getting participation, etc.
Conclusions
1. Since all academic libraries surveyed perform deselection process, it is an indication that they perceive the process as an important component of the collection development program.
2. Academic librarians perform weeding but most of them have no continuous or periodic weeding programs
3. Weeding policies are used by most academic librarians in the deselection process but there are still a few who do not have written guidelines.
Recommendations
1. Implement continuous and regular weeding process, at least once every two years.
2. Emphasize weeding of less-used materials by transferring or relocating them to a stock room rather than totally discarding them in as much as all are related to the curriculum.
3. For academic libraries with no weeding policies yet, formulate sound guidelines and perform deselection process in the light of these policies.
4. To solve the deselection problems encountered by academic librarians, there should be lectures or seminars about weeding so that academic librarians would be made more aware of the importance of the process.
