The primary purpose of the Reference Collection is to support the curriculum of F&M.
All librarians are responsible for developing, maintaining, and assessing the collection. Research Services is administratively responsible for overall management of the collection.
The primary users of the Reference Collection are F&M students, faculty, and staff. Users who are not affiliated with the college are welcome to use the print reference collection.
General factors (in no particular order) to be considered when selecting materials for the reference collection include:
IP authenticated access to online content is preferred. However, the print format may be purchased if online access is unavailable, cost prohibitive, etc.
The print Reference Collection is non-circulating, with the exception of faculty who are able to check-out reference volumes for a one-week circulation period.
Research Services is administratively responsible for managing the reference budget line.
The following resources are recommended for consultation to inform purchasing decisions. Research Services will provide copies of reviews to liaison librarians.
Duplicate copies of selected print reference materials may be purchased to be placed in both library buildings, as necessary (e.g., style guides).
The Reference Collection Development Policy will be reviewed every 3-5 years, and revised as necessary. Research Services has administrative responsibility this process.