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.
Watch a one-hour webinar featuring a live demonstration of collection development workflows in action.
Roles and Permissions for Collection Development Workflows
Workflows are available only to users with the Collection Development Manager role. These users are the only ones who can:
- See the Workflows menu under Collection Development
- Create, edit, and delete collection development projects
- Generate and manage recommendations for projects
Collection Development Managers do not have access to workflow configuration. Only Repository Administrators and Rialto Administrators can configure collection development settings, but users with these roles cannot view, create, or manage projects. To understand what actions are available to each user role, and how to assign them, see Managing Rialto User Roles.
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.
Looking for practical tips, clarifications, and guidance to get the most from retention and deselection projects? See the Collection Development Workflows FAQ.