Libraries are a place for learning and exploration. One major component of the library is the collection (books and other materials). There are different strategies that libraries can use to help people find what they are looking with the greatest ease. There are considerations for cataloging resources, organizing and shelving books, setting up borrowing processes, and adding and discarding books. We have prepared a section for each of these topics to guide processes as your libraries are readied to benefit the children at Catholic Charities of Oregon.

Here are some general resources to help get started ~

Ideas for starting a small library:

• American Library Association, Small and Home Libraries: https://libguides.ala.org/librarytech/small-libs

• How to Start a Lending Library: https://www.savingadvice.com/articles/2019/02/21/101604_how-to-start-a-lending-library.html

• WikiHow, Start a Small Library: https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Small-Library

Library Association resources:

• ALA (American Library Association): https://www.ala.org/

• Oregon State Library: https://www.oregon.gov/library/libraries/pages/default.aspx

• ARSL (Association for Rural and Small Libraries): https://www.arsl.org/

• ALSC (Association for Library Service to Children): https://www.ala.org/alsc/publications-resources/professional-tools

• YALSA (Young Adult Library Services Association): https://www.ala.org/yalsa/