ABSTRACT
Difficult as it is to choose which published materials to purchase with limited funds, it is even more difficult to decide which to discard, or, as in the case of periodicals, which to discontinue. Terminology is often very revealing of attitudes and in this process the library profession alternates in using the terms “deselection” and “weeding.” Deselection implies undoing a past action, one of selecting. In both cases a modicum of choice is involved. On the other hand, weeding implies ridding an area of the undesirable, even infectious. Forced to cut back on expenses, libraries have to learn the wisest and most economical ways to maintain their aims and goals and yet stay afloat on an appropriated budget. In choosing to discontinue journals, they may feel regret and anxiety rather than victory over a nuisance. Throughout this review, the term “deselection” will be used.
