Weeding

Collection management is not just about what we add to our collections, it's also about what we remove. A thoughtful, intentional plan for weeding the collection should be a component of every collection management plan. 

WCPSS Board Policy 3200

The necessity of removing materials from the school library collection is addressed in Board Policy 3200, part D:

"To ensure that the school library collection remains relevant, the library and technology professionals, assisted by the Media and Technology Advisory committee, shall review materials routinely to determine if any material is obsolete, outdated, or irrelevant.  The school Media and Technology Advisory Committee should remove materials no longer appropriate and replace lost, damaged, and worn materials still of educational value."

Process for Weeding Materials

School librarians should follow these steps when weeding materials from the collection:

1. Delete material from the Destiny Catalog

   • Catalog/Update Copies ------>make sure the box labeled "Mark as Weeded" is checked. Scan the barcode to delete.

2. Remove/mark out barcode, spine label, and property labels.

3. Books that still have legitimate educational value (but were weeded due to duplicate copies, low circulation, etc.) may be offered to teachers for use in their classroom libraries. They remain the property of the school.

4. Books that are in poor condition or no longer have legitimate educational value can be recycled through textbook recycling. The school librarian should work with school administration to coordinate this process.

   • 1. • Note: Please do not donate weeded library materials to the WAKE Up and Read Book Drive. The WCPSS Finance Manual states that “Items may not be donated or given to other groups or organizations” (Chapter Five, p.7, Surplus Disposals). In addition, materials that have been thoughtfully weeded from a school library collection due to condition, age, or lack of circulation are not ideal for supporting WUAR’s mission. 

        • If you do not have space to store weeded library materials until the district textbook recycling occurs, your school can contract directly with the vendor to schedule your own recycling at a reasonable cost. Contact Grime Control at 919-833-3777. 

5. If you are weeding audio visual material (VHS or cassette tapes, DVDs, etc.), box up these materials separately and label the box "Destroy Electronic Media".

   • You can dispose of these items with Technology ERD. See directions, forms, and how to schedule pick up on the Tech-ERD site on WakeConnect