ORDERING LIBRARY MATERIALS: ADDITIONAL INFO

The library will purchase used books in some circumstances. Purchasing used books requires increased library staff time because used books do not always arrive in advertised condition, fulfillment rates are lower with used book vendors, and communication is more complex when using multiple vendors or used book websites. 

Library staff may choose used books under the following conditions: 

• The advertised condition of the book is new or like new; the book does not contain highlighting, inscriptions or other damage.
• The cost savings between used and new, including shipping, is significant.
• Library staff has sufficient time to spend on used book orders.
• An out of print title with continued relevance to the collection is readily available used.

While faculty members are welcome to suggest used books, library staff will make the final decision regarding their purchase. 

Used audiovisual materials tend to be less reliable and often require more staff time to examine for defects. Thus, as a general rule we do not purchase used videos, DVDs, CDs, etc.

The library's collection development plan contains additional information about selection, priorities, special collections, gifts, weeding, and other collection management policies.

Normally, periodical purchase decisions are made as a department and are relayed to the liaison librarian by the department chair.

New materials are displayed in the NewsNook on the first floor (adjacent to the Reference Room) and may be checked out at the circulation desk.