Recently we took some time to chat with Dianne Coan, Division Director of Technical Operations at Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) about Core Collections. Initially, FCPL subscribed to the print edition and then switched to the online database. Dianne and the staff of FCPL have expanded the ways in which they use Core Collections, making it an essential tool in managing purchasing decisions, determining weeding priorities, responding to changing demographics, and building relationships with community partners. You can read the full story here.
Is your library just getting started with Core Collections? Dianne has some advice for you:
- Make sure you're using the Core Collections interface. The interface provides numerous ways to quickly see recommendations from various levels and for various audiences. You can also upload your own collection to better compare it against suggested titles.
- Understand how it can be a part of making your collection health even better. Everyone wants a healthy collection. Core Collections can help! For example, use it at the end of year to decide how to spend EOY dollars in an effective way. You can look at the reviews and recommendation levels to be sure you are buying the *right* materials.
- Take it slow. There are a lot of capabilities in Core Collections, so it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Take it slow. Try researching a specific recommendation level, subject, or Dewey range first. Once you’re comfortable with this then you can start to explore how to incorporate it into your purchasing and weeding processes.
Ready to do some more learning? Sign up for a training here.
Molly Wyand is a Communications Specialist at NoveList. She is currently reading The Lost Daughter by Elena Ferrante.
