Floating Collections: A Collection Development Model for Long-Term Success

Though many librarians may have heard the term "floating collection," they may not fully understand exactly how it works. A floating collection is a system-wide collection that is not owned by any specific branch. When items are returned to a branch, they simply stay there until they circulate again. The pros and cons of floating various collections are discussed. The author offers information on challenges library systems may face as they begin to prepare their collections, staff, and communities. Although clearly an advocate for promoting this practice, Barrett does discuss the importance of a hard pre-floating weeding of collections and a second weed a year into the practice. She argues that floating is a service to communities, is fiscally responsible for budget-strapped systems, and, in the end, a benefit to library staff. Chapters include tips on how to approach the practice with staff, how to ready facilities and collections, and, most importantly, how to manage new collections. Also offered are practical evaluations, FAQs, and a list of larger systems in the United States that offer floating collections.—Allison Santos, Princeton Public Library, NJ