Collection Assessment and New Academic Programs

Abstract

At Oregon State University a library collection assessment is a required part of the review process for every new academic program proposal. Over time, this assessment has moved away from a brief statement regarding the adequacy of the collection to support the new program to a more thorough evaluation and report. These assessments also provide a basis for including collections as a component of the cost of university support for new programs but seldom result in sufficient increased funding. Their true value may be in the opportunity for dialogue on information literacy and the future of scholarly communication.