Library collection development

Our collections consist of printed and electronic resources that support the University's learning, teaching, and research activities. Academic Liaison Librarians work with academic staff to ensure materials are available in a variety of formats and loan periods.

There are two other special collections at the University:

  • SURE - A collection of the research output produced at the University of Sunderland. Please note that SURE is not managed by Library Services.
  • Special collections - Primary source material relating to Sunderland and the North East, including NEEMARC and the Kate Adie Collection.

Subscriptions and e-resource annual review

We conduct an annual review of subscription resources in consultation with academic staff. This ensures that our subscriptions to journals and databases support current learning, teaching, and research activities within our available budget. Your engagement in this process makes a valuable contribution, giving you and your students access to appropriate resources.

Recommendations for purchase

We have an e-first approach to new acquisitions. You are responsible for selecting appropriate resources for inclusion on the reading lists for the modules you teach. Where possible you should select from the stock we have available in our collections. Where new texts are required please contact your Academic Liaison Librarian. We recommend ebooks for inclusion in resource lists (where they are available to buy) as they allow both on- and off-campus access. Ebooks are essential for modules taught in our partner institutions, studied by independent learners, and for online-only courses.

Collection review

We carry out regular collection reviews to ensure our collections are up to date and fit for purpose. We will consult with you before any proposed deletions in your subject area are made. Our professional staff conduct routine day-to-day management of collections, such as withdrawing lost or damaged items, generally without consultation.

Collection Development Policy

A clear framework used to acquire and manage Library resources