2014 Charleston Library Conference

This presentation will use Appalachian State’s experiences as a stimulus for discussion about how we have, and others may, successfully remove, in a single swoop, thousands of linear feet of little-used collections to open library areas for new services and spaces. The program will be a resource and guide to others interested in large-scale deaccessioning projects.

Space constraints limit many midsize and small academic libraries wishing to implement new services. The largest occupant of library square footage is the paper collection and this collection is declining in use. With the rise of ejournals and extensive digital archives, the most dramatic fall off in use has occurred in the bound journal stacks. How can large swaths of space be confidently reclaimed by identifying and disposing of bound journals now held in online archives? What will the campus reaction be and how can it be managed? What is involved in project planning and implementation? What staffing and subscription savings were realized? What content was saved?

In 2014 alone, Appalachian has removed more than one mile and 75 tons of the journal collection. We will offer insights into a successful project and engage the audience in a discussion about emerging best practices for detecting the driving forces for journal removal; project planning; public relations; campus reactions; technical services issues; logistical concerns; and materials disposal.