How Does the Hillsboro Public Library Select Books

In a world saturated with new titles, how does a local public library decide what books to add to the community's library collection?

Research

Each year, nearly two million books are published in the United States, not including self-published.¹ To choose new books, the purchasing Librarians at Hillsboro Public Library, known as "Selectors," consult:

• purchasing information
• professional book review magazine and journals
• recommended reading lists from reliable sources
• book awards
• bestseller lists
• suggestions from community members

Inventorying the Collection

Selectors also keep an eye on books already in the collection.

They must:

• review the frequency of checkouts and decide whether to get more books by that author or on that topic.
• consider if a book is worn out and should be replaced with a new copy or with an updated book on the same topic.
• check available formats so materials are accessible to all users.

Guided by Goals & Policy

Hillsboro Public Library provides a dynamic collection that reflects the community's needs, interests, and diversity. To achieve this, a Collection Development Policy gives guidance and direction to library staff.

A Responsibility for Inclusivity

Librarians have a professional responsibility to be inclusive, not exclusive, in developing materials collections and to comply with the tenets of the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read Statement.

"We serve one of the most diverse populations in Oregon, and we make sure our collection reflects that," said Elizabeth López, Library Manager for the Access program.

"Our shelves are filled with materials that present diverse ranges of viewpoints and languages, and are written or created by people representative of their communities. We will periodically audit our collection to ensure it maintains a vibrant diversity."

Patrons Request Books

Everyone is encouraged to suggest items for inclusion in Hillsboro's collection. On average, the Hillsboro Public Library receives 22 requests per week.

For example, the Library is now working with publishers to bring in children's books for our growing Ukrainian population, which stemmed from patron requests.

Inspiring a Love of Reading

For the Selectors, emphasis is placed on obtaining current, popular materials, as well as providing information in a cost-effective manner.

There is a bigger, overarching goal at Hillsboro Public Library: to inspire the love of reading and the exploration of ideas, culture, and knowledge - with a focus on supporting literacy and learning, student success, and lifelong learning.

1 Zippia. "23 Gripping Book Industry Statistics [2023]: How Many Books Were Published in 2022" Zippia.com. Jun. 27, 2023, https://www.zippia.com/advice/us-book-industry-statistics/

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