collection development policy
phrasePronunciation: /kəˈlɛkʃən dɪˈvɛləpmənt ˈpɑləsi/
Also written as: CDP
A formal document that establishes guidelines and criteria for selecting, acquiring, and maintaining library materials to support institutional goals.
Full Definition
A collection development policy serves as the foundational framework that guides all decisions related to building and maintaining a library's collection. It articulates the library's mission, defines collection scope and depth by subject area, establishes selection criteria and responsibility, and outlines procedures for evaluation and deselection. The policy addresses budget allocation, formats collected, and cooperative arrangements with other institutions. It serves both as an internal planning tool and a public statement of the library's collection priorities and commitments.
Plain English
A written plan that explains what types of books, journals, and other materials a library will buy and keep to serve its users.
In Editorial Context
The institutional framework that determines which published materials and content types will be acquired to support academic programs and research needs.
Etymology & History
Formalized during the professionalization of library science as institutions sought systematic approaches to collection building amid expanding publishing output.
Has evolved from simple acquisition guidelines to complex strategic documents addressing digital resources, licensing, and collaborative collection building.
Usage
"The library committee voted to revise the collection development policy to better address emerging digital scholarship formats and open educational resources."
Usage note: Should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changing institutional priorities and publishing landscape.
Context: academic libraries, collection development, library administration, strategic planning
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
Collection management policies address the ongoing care of existing materials, while collection development policies focus on building the collection.