In the weeds: Deselection in libraries in Aotearoa

Deselection, or weeding, is an essential aspect of collection management in libraries, ensuring that collection remain relevant, current, and aligned with community needs (Rowley & Willson, 2022). The systematic removal of outdated, damaged or underutilised materials makes space for new resources and allows librarians to reconsider the configuration of library space for other purposes (Johnson, 2013). As Broadbent et al. (2022) suggest, though, deselection is a complex process, “fraught with risk” (p. 1), including negative perceptions and community backlash at the removal of large quantities of books. This paper is based on findings from a research project on library collection management. The paper aligns with the conference theme by reflecting how a conventional and long-standing library practice like deselection is changing to incorporate new technology-driven approaches in a drive to support future collection needs. The research was a qualitative, exploratory study that investigated collection management practices in diverse types of libraries across the country. We present findings relating specifically to deselection practices and considerations including: ● Deselection policies and factors influencing deselection decisions. We identified a move towards smaller print collections as libraries sought to use the space for other purposes. An increasing focus on electronic resources was another factor driving the weeding of print collections. On a more practical level, participants mentioned using evaluation approaches like MUSTIE (Misleading, Ugly, Superseded, Trivial, Irrelevant, and Elsewhere) and data analysis tools such as Collection HQ to guide deselection decisions. ● Bicultural and diversity considerations. Libraries in Aotearoa work within the context of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and must consider how weeding policies based on, for example, circulation statistics, negatively impact items of significance for Māori communities. Participants discussed the importance of collection diversity to ensure that Māori language and knowledge are well-represented in collections and also of providing materials that reflect a wide range of perspectives and promote equity and inclusion. ● Sustainability issues. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor in weeding and collection management more generally (Chadwell, 2012). Participants spoke of how they tried to minimse the environmental impact of deselection through donations, book sales, minimising processing when acquiring items, and the ethical disposal of materials. ● Community perceptions and responses. Community resistance to the removal of items from collections can be strong, particularly when removals are large-scale or high-profile (Roy, 2020). Our participants discussed the importance of communicating deselection decisions and approaches with communities and stakeholders. While approaches like MUSTIE help librarians take a practical approach to weeding their collections, we discuss how the process also has philosophical implications. Deselection is guided by core professional values such as intellectual freedom, sustainability, and social and cultural responsibility. In Aotearoa specifically, librarians should consider how weeding policies and practices often reflect Western collection standards and whose voices are prioritsed through conventional deselection approaches. Reflecting on these long-held principles, we explore how our respondents approach deselection to shape responsive and responsible collections for the future as communities change. References Broadbent, D., Goates, M. C., Frost, M., Nelson, G. M., & Pixton, D. S. (2022). In their own words: Perspectives on collection weeding from library employees and teaching faculty. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 48(4), 102563. Johnson, P. (2013). Is weeding an unnatural act? Technicalities, 33 (5), 2-4. Rowley, K., & Willson, R. (2022). Scotland's public libraries are nothing but practical when it comes to deselection. Library and Information Research. https://lirgjournal.org.uk/index.php/lir/article/view/795 Roy, E. A. (2020). ‘I literally weep’: anguish as New Zealand’s National Library culls 600,000 books. The Guardian, 11 September, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/sep/11/i-literally-weep-anguish-as-new-zealands-national-library-culls-600000-books