Collection evaluations provide valuable information on collection strengths and weaknesses, collection usage, and specific subject elements of the collection, which may be used when weeding and in formulating collection development policies.

When planning for evaluations, a Subject Librarian:

1. Selects the portion of the collection to be evaluated. Examples: LC subject classification, stacks

2. Establishes a reasonable timetable for the assessment

3. Reviews any relevant policy statements

4. Determines the assessment’s objectives

5. Selects the best and most appropriate measurement techniques. Possibilities include a combination of collection-centered and use-centered techniques

6. Identifies the necessary resources to complete the evaluation. These may include staff, $$, software or time

7. Prepares a final report which includes results, problems, chosen methodologies, and serendipitous observations about the collection or facilities

8. Proposes a purchasing plan to redress collection deficiencies