Library collection management and development policy

Purpose and scope of the library collections

3.1 The purpose of the library collections is to:

• encourage reading for enjoyment
• contribute to the development of language and literacy
• provide knowledge, inspiration, entertainment, and cultural stimulation
• offer accessible and inclusive collections, attractive and relevant to existing and new or potential members
• encourage access to reading materials through a wide range of formats
• promote awareness of Lancashire's culture, history, and heritage
• reflect the positive values of a diverse community
• meet the information needs of individuals, businesses, and other organisations
• encourage and support life-long learning
• provide a range of resources which promote health and wellbeing

3.2 Library collections are available in a wide range of formats, both printed and electronic, and across all genres. They aim to meet the cultural, information and reading needs of people who live, work and study in Lancashire.

3.3 Lancashire library stock is a countywide resource, with 1.13 million items available for use across Lancashire.

3.4 All libraries in Lancashire have a core range of stock, tailored to the size and demographic of their local community. In addition to the core lending stock for adults, young people and children, a selection of books and maps of local interest is held in all Lancashire libraries.

3.5 Library branches are banded A -D according to the length and pattern of opening hours, the range of services offered, and the total quantity of stock held.

• band A libraries usually have 20,000 - 50,000 items
• band B libraries have a total stock of 12,000 - 16,000 items
• band C libraries have a total stock of 6,000 -11,000 items
• band D libraries have a total stock of up to 5,000 items

3.6 Lending collections include:

• fiction
• non-fiction
• books in languages other than English
• local history materials
• large print books
• maps
• audiobooks on CD
• eBooks
• eAudiobooks
• eMagazines, eNewspapers and eComics
• sets for reading groups
• vocal scores
• plays
• instrumental music
• DVDs
• music CDs
• reserve collections 

3.7 Reference collections include:

• newspapers
• printed reference works
• local collections
• special collections
• Lancashire Printed Collection
• online reference resources

3.8 Sets of up to 15 copies of a title are available for reading groups. The collection is refreshed annually and includes alternative formats such as large print and audiobooks. Simultaneous access titles from the eBook and eAudiobook collections are also available.

3.9 The music and drama collections comprise vocal scores, instrumental music, and play sets. Most are held at Lostock Hall library although the Stocks Massey music library is held at Burnley.

 

3.10 Fiction, non-fiction and local history reserve collections are held at Skelmersdale library. The collections comprise out-of-print titles of merit or significance. Last copies withdrawn from lending stock may be added to the reserves.

3.11 A countywide collection of music CDs is held at Fleetwood Library. Music CDs are no longer purchased, and the collection is not being added to. There is also a collection of DVDs at Fleetwood. This collection is added to according to demand.

3.12    Reference collections

• Local daily and weekly newspapers are provided in some libraries. Historic newspapers are held on microfilm in the larger libraries and at Lancashire Archives.

• Some libraries hold collections of unpublished local material including manuscripts, local authority records, original photographs, and oral history recordings. This material needs special care and handling and consideration should be given to each item is and whether it might be more appropriately located at Lancashire Archives.

• Some libraries hold special collections, including some of regional, national, and international significance. Many were donated or bequeathed by local benefactors and include rare books and historic printed material.

• The Lancashire Printed Collection is held and managed for the library service by Lancashire Archives. It includes printed books, pamphlets, periodicals, maps, and ephemera.

• The service provides a wide range of free online reference resources including material to support the business community, homework and study, and family and local history research.