Preview of Acquisition of Print Books in the University Library: With Special Reference to Central Library, Visva-Bharati

Abstract

The Library aims to provide a high quality, scholarly and relevant collection to support the teaching, learning and research needs of the University. Some general criteria (e.g. relevance, content, quality, currency, publishers’ reputation, etc.) are used when considering the acquisition of any resource. Acquisition process comprises many steps right from the enlistment of suppliers / publishers to relook the entire process. Each and every step needs proper care for ensuring quality collection and performance of the library. These steps may vary from library to library according to the types, size, staff strength and needs of the libraries. Even in the 21st century especially in India, Collection of print books is of important to any university library. Till now, there is no unique and universal acceptable guideline for acquiring print books and libraries are acquiring print books on their own policies, if any. In this context, present paper is a drive to explore the ways and practices follows by Central Library, Visva-Bharati with zeal to share with the Indian library professionals for its fine tuning. The paper covers, acquisition, its goals and activities involved in the acquisition process, problems of the section, status of collection of print books during last three years at central library, Visva-Bharati.