Library Collection Development

Introduction

The First Nations University of Canada libraries in Regina, Prince Albert, and Saskatoon advance teaching, learning, research, and community service by providing collections that support the academic programming of the university-college community.

The FNUniv Libraries are committed to:

• Facilitate excellence in teaching, learning and research
• Create an environment to support teaching, learning, and research
• Anticipate and respond to student and faculty needs
• Contribute to positive student and faculty outcomes and experiences
• Supporting community outreach and community partnerships

Policy

Collection Development Statement:

The First Nations University of Canada library collections focus primarily on materials written by, for, and about the First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples of Canada, with a secondary focus on the Indigenous peoples of North, South and Central America, as well as Australia and New Zealand. The FNUniv library collections also support the diverse academic programming offered by the university-college.

Selection Responsibility:

Librarians are responsible for selecting material, and work with faculty to coordinate recommendations originating from within their own departments and faculties.

• The Library generally does not accept solicitations from authors.
• Employees of the University, students, and the general public may request that material be added to the collection by submitting a request in writing to the Librarian

Format:

Materials are collected in various formats: monographs, periodicals, audio-visual, and digital.

Language:

English is the primary language of materials collected, as well as a wide range of First Nations language materials which support programming in languages and linguistics.

Publication dates:

Primary emphasis will be placed on material published within the preceding ten years. Material on the historical development of a discipline will be acquired as necessary.

Editions:

Latest editions are preferred; older editions may be retained if they are considered classic works

General Criteria for Selection:

Selection involves the planned identification and review of items best suited to strengthen the First Nations University of Canada’s resources for support of its curriculum and faculty research. Specific criteria include:

• Anticipated use.
• Curriculum relevance and level.
• Positive reviews or evaluations.
• Quality of content and accuracy.
• Reputation of publisher, author, etc.
• Unique or fills a gap in the collection.
• Anticipated lifespan.

Selection of First Nations Materials:

In the selection of First Nations materials, the following issues should be considered. For example:

1. Does the title lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of First Nations peoples of both yesterday and today, or both?
2. Does the title give insight into the diversity of First Nations cultures and First Nations peoples?
3. Is the information accurate, misleading, or does it contain factual errors?
4. Is the title sensitive to appropriation and accurate use of words and terminology?
5. Were First Nations people involved in the writing, illustration or publishing of the title, either directly or indirectly?

Role and Responsibilities

Librarian(s)

• Policy Owner
• Compliance with policy

Library Technician(s)

• Compliance with policy

University staff, faculty, students, and public-at-large

• Compliance with policy

Consequences for Noncompliance

Noncompliance with this policy may result in the Library appearing to be reckless in the maintenance of its collections, and/or facing criticism from the university community. Noncompliance may also result in a deterioration of the library’s vibrancy, relevance, and usability.

Processes

1. Revisions, changes, or noncompliance with this policy will be addressed first by the Librarian, and if need be, the Library Services Committee and Academic Council.

Related Information

• Donation of Library Materials Policy
• Library – De-Accessioning (Weeding) Policy