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Department of Technical Services
Collection Management Policies

RATIONALE AND PROCEDURES

University of Rhode Island

Library Impact Statement

Rationale and Procedure

Rationale: The University Libraries wish to create a Library Impact Statement for use when new courses, programs, majors or degrees are proposed. Our objective is to work with faculty to evaluate the needs of new programs in advance of their adoption. Working actively rather than reactively, we may assure that our collections and services provide the support necessary for our students in all programs. We may also plan a budget accordingly, without reallocating funds from existing areas.

Procedure: As faculty prepare to submit the Course Proposal [or other] forms, they should complete the questionnaire designed by the Libraries and submit it to the Subject Selector or Collection Development Manager. The librarians will then prepare an assessment of:

the suitability of existing resources;
the new resources required to support the program;
the information skills education required by the students; and
the funds needed for library materials and services.

The Curricular Affairs Committee and Graduate Council, not the Library staff, will be the adjudicators of the proposed programs. However, The Curricular Affairs Committee and Graduate Council will expect a sign-off from the Library by attachment of the completed Impact Statement.

Summary and Conclusion: The Libraries endorse the concept of expanding or redesigning the curriculum as a vital and necessary aspect of academic work. Particularly as trends emerge which universities wish to adopt, we should be advocates for the creative and futuristic ventures devised by our faculty. At the same time, it is the Libraries’ responsibility to assure that the corresponding materials and services required by new programs can be met effectively by the University. Failure to plan and budget appropriately can result only in shortchanging students and diminishing the potential of the new programs. We also must be aware of the growing challenge of distance learning clientele and be prepared to offer a broader range of services than before. Thus, now more than ever, the Library Impact Statement affords the opportunity for collaboration and prospective planning to the University, its faculty, and its students.

University of Rhode Island Libraries