I. Objectives of the Library

The Cora J. Belden Library provides free library service on an equal basis to all residents of Rocky Hill and to all other constituents of the region and state whom it is by law or contract bound to serve.

The objectives of the Library are:

1. To provide materials for information, education, research, and recreation

2. To encourage and stimulate the use of such materials. The Library makes a positive contribution to the cultural and intellectual life of the Town and provides free access to all fields of knowledge.

The Materials Selection Policy is directed toward the development and maintenance of an outstanding, well-balanced collection of the best and most useful materials available. The Library's resources include books, periodicals, newspapers, microform, music CDs, framed art work, toys, books on tape, online electronic databases, videos, and DVDs. Additional forms of information and communication are considered as they develop.

The Library supports intellectual freedom and has adopted the following statements as policy: The American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, The American Library Association's Freedom to Read Statement, and The Freedom to View Statement of the American Film and Video Association.

II.     General Principles of Selection

Essential to the Library's Materials Selection Policy are certain fundamental principles adopted to meet the needs and diversified interests of all residents of the community, and to contribute to their continuing education and personal development.

It is the responsibility of the Library to provide materials in the following areas:

Information - to serve as an information and research center

Education - to provide for the needs of customers in their formal and informal education

Recreation - to encourage reading for the enjoyable use of leisure time

III.    General Criteria

In the selection of materials high standards of quality are maintained, with application of one of the following criteria:

• Reputation and significance of the author or artist

• Authoritativeness and accuracy

• Literary style or artistic excellence

• Relevance to present or anticipated needs and interest of the community

• Permanent value as resource material

• Timelines, reflecting new areas of knowledge or changing conditions of the contemporary scene

• Readability and clarity in relation to intended audience

• Critical evaluation in professional reviewing media

• Accessibility in other collections in the region

• Price and availability of funds

• Local interest

Recommendations to the Library Director from individuals or groups pertaining to the inclusion or exclusion of specific materials in the Library's collection are given consideration within the framework of policies determined by the Library Board of Trustees.

IV.    Responsibility for Selection

Responsibility for initial selection of materials rests with the professional staff assisted by reviews and recommendations. Ultimate responsibility rests with the Library Director within the framework of policies determined by the Library Board of Trustees.

Approved by the Cora J. Belden Library Board of Trustees 4/23/96
Amended 5/21/01