Collection Development: Acquisitions

The acquisition process begins after materials have been thoughtfully selected.  Acquisition includes locating the right item, ordering it, and processing the item and the paperwork once it arrives.. Although acquisitions procedures may vary depending on the library’s mission and resources, all libraries have some goals in common. These include acquiring materials as quickly and economically as possible and minimizing the amount of paperwork, filing and follow-up needed. Effective working relationships with vendors are very important as well.

Click on the following for summaries of key acquisition processes prepared by the Idaho Commission for Libraries.

Materials Selections and the Budget

Acquisitions Flow