library policy #9: CD-ROM Selection Policy

The purpose of this policy is to establish the guidelines and a process for the review, selection and ordering of CD-ROMs of all types purchased with Robert S. Small Library funds. This policy also governs the addition of CD-ROM materials when they arrive with print accompaniment. See Policy #17 for guidelines on selection of other materials.

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CD-ROM is defined as a computer optical laser disc which supplements or replaces traditional print media and contains print, music, and/or video. Types of materials not governed by this policy include gateways to the Web and the Internet.

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As with monographic and serials acquisitions, the faculty and the library faculty select CD-ROM material to support the teaching and other educational requirements of the College. CD-ROMs are subject to the criteria delineated in the Library's Collection Development Policy (Library General Policy #17).

• 3.1 CD-ROMs Which Accompany Traditional Books and Journals
  When CD-ROMs accompany traditional printed books and journals, they will be added to the Libraries' collections and shelved with the material which they accompany. Inexpensive orders (under $200) for these materials may be initiated and approved by faculty or library liaisons and do not require other approval except where price approval is necessary by the Dean of Libraries.
• 3.2 CD-ROM Media (costing more than $200)
  The Collection Development Committee will review requests for materials costing more than $200. In evaluating any request, the Committee will consider cost, equipment requirements, subject coverage and other collection development requirements.

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As with other materials housed in the Libraries, those materials ordered with library funds should be ordered by the Collection Development Department.

4.1 Items Received on Approval
Since many CD-ROMs are costly and have sophisticated technical requirements in terms of staff and equipment, they may be previewed prior to ordering. Such approval viewing should be coordinated through the Collection Development Department.

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CD-ROM and other non-print material shall be cataloged by the College of Charleston Libraries Cataloging Department in adherence to current Anglo-American Cataloging Rules.

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CD-ROM and the material governed by this policy will be treated in the same manner as printed material when the Libraries determine whether an item will circulate or not.

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Sponsored by: Katina Strauch February 12, 1996
Bob Neville
Reviewed/Revised: Collection Development Committee September 11, 1996
Revised: Librarians September 26,1996
Approved: Dean of Libraries September 27, 1996

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