Assessing library collection: a case study at University of Peradeniya

Abstract

In Feb, 2008 management of the Main Library, University of Peradeniya (UP) decided to carry out a collection assessment project to gain information on its collection at subject level. Particularly in a university library, collection assessment is necessary to evaluate whether the collection is able to support the institution's curriculums and fulfill the teaching, learning and research needs of the staff and students of the university. The results of the assessment could be used to compile a collection development policy in the library and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the collection. In this study physical stock counting method which comes under the collection –centered approach was chosen to evaluate the monograph portion according to subjects. The paper describes the process, methods used and results obtained from the assessment. Finally it briefs some suggestions to be used in future collection assessment projects to gain comprehensive information on the collection.