Collection Development Workflows
Collection development workflows help libraries make data-driven decisions about their collections. These workflows provide a systematic way to:
- Identify high-value or unique items and ensure their preservation
- Detect and remove unnecessary or duplicated items across collections
- Optimize shelf space and budget allocation based on data-driven analysis
- Coordinate collection-related decisions with partner institutions
- Streamline complex decisions into repeatable, transparent workflows
Collection development workflows are available to all Alma users, whether or not they use Rialto.
If you are interested in collection development workflows, you first need to update your Data Sharing Profile settings. Instructions are available in Enabling Collection Development Workflows.
Available Workflows
Currently, there are two collection development workflows: Retention and Deselection. Each addresses a different aspect of collection management, but both follow the same principles of data-driven decision-making and inter-institutional collaboration.
Retention
The Retention workflow enables libraries to identify important items in their collections and maintain a minimum number of copies of key titles.
Use Retention when you want to:
- Safeguard unique and high-value titles
- Establish minimum holdings for high-demand items
- Participate in collaborative retention projects with partner institutions
Retention ensures that important items are not lost over time, particularly if they are the last available copies in your network.
Deselection
The Deselection workflow helps you identify items in your collection that are suitable for permanent or temporary removal. This may include titles that are outdated, no longer read, or overrepresented.
Use Deselection when you want to:
- Remove low-value or underused items
- Reduce unnecessary duplication of items
- Simplify inventory management by removing clutter and overstock
Deselection ensures your collection remains current, useful, and manageable. It also helps free up resources that can be redirected to new acquisitions.