ETL 503 - Creating an uncensored collection

In light of recent tough economic times and the never ending pressures to tighten budgets, it's more important than ever to ensure that purchases are carefully considered.  I was, however, completely ignorant to the various procedures undertaken by teacher-librarians to ensure that acquisitions add value to their broader collection.  There are so many factors to assess that it's a miracle that any new purchases are made at all!

One of the most significant concerns that struck me, in terms of collection development and management, is the prospect of a sole individual being in charge of the process.  How on earth can the school community be assured that their various needs are met if there is only one person involved in the evaluation and selection of resources?  The needs and learning preferences of the modern student are changing so rapidly that surely they need to have a voice?  The teaching staff must also have the power to recommend and select texts that suit their own curriculum needs.  If teachers and teacher-librarians are able to achieve collegiality then a 'team' approach is necessary.

The more people involved in the acquisition process, then the less chance that individuals are able to exercise censorship.  The prospect of being denied access to a diverse range of resources scares me.  Whilst TLs may strive to achieve neutrality, they are also carrying the responsibility of selecting resources for a potentially vulnerable demographic.  Excluding some texts on the basis of their offensive nature may be tempting, but we must also educate and equip students with the skills to interpret and evaluate such texts.