Sullivan County Public Library Collection Development Policy

Sullivan County Public Library serves as an information source for the community and provides a broad and relevant collection of materials for informational, educational and recreational purposes to people of differing ages.

The selection, acquisition, maintenance, and retention of materials rest with the Library Director who operates within the framework of policies established by the Board of Trustees. The library collects materials in a variety of formats including books, magazines, newspapers, and media. Materials selected will be based on local and national demand, professional and popular media reviews, and recommendations from the public. Space and budgetary limits are also a consideration.  

Materials for children and teenagers are intended to encourage and facilitate reading skills, widen their interests and lead to an appreciation of literature. The children's library shall not display any age-inappropriate materials in any form. No materials shall be purchased or acquired that constitutes "child pornography," is "pornographic for minors," or is "obsecene" per the terms defined in 573.010 RSMo. Advertisement for any events or presentations held at the library will be affixed with an age-appropriate designation. 

The reading and viewing activity of children is ultimately the responsibility of parents and guardians, who guide and oversee their own children's development. Sullivan County Public Library does not intrude of that relationship. The library will provide a Parent/Guardian Initiated Restrictions form so that parents and guardians may determine what materials and access will be available to their child. Library staff shall not knowingly grant access to a minor to any material in any form that has been restricted by that minor's parent or guardian. 

Sullivan County Public Library recognized the right of individuals to question both the material selected by the library and also the age-appropriate designation affixed to any presentation, event, material, or display in the library. Individuals may fill out a Request for Reconsideration of Library Material form which will be reviewed by the Director and the Board of Trustees. The results will be disclosed to the public and published. 

Management of the collection will require periodic weeding and withdraw of materials. The criteria used for this process will be; infrequent use of material, no longer relevant or accurate, poor condition, or duplicates.

The library that use of and access to its collection of historical and genealogical materials are its primary function. Material in original format will be preserved for as long as possible and access will be provided to original formats as appropriate.