Whenever this question is asked (and it comes up on a semi-regular basis) I always ask what the rationale is for integrating media with books (monographs). The response is usually along the lines of giving our patrons one place to go for content.
But libraries don't integrate their * print * collections. Journals are shelved separately from books. Reference books in a separate area, and even within Reference items are separated into unique sections: Indexes, Altases, Dictionaries all in separate sections or shelving units, and oversize books (Folios) in separate sections. When confronted with this fact of library organization most librarians and staff react with a "well, of course" attitude, recognizing that both content and format as well as patron desire and need often dictate separate approaches to materials. And users * do * approach video differently depending on the intended use. Sometimes they want something to view for entertainment, and find a browsing approach acceptable for feature films. But when looking for documentary or educational materials might be interested in similar related titles. All that said, I am a strong proponent of open shelving and open loan policies for video collections. And adamantly opposed to closed stacks and restrictive loan policies. For materials that are truly rare, irreplaceable, extremely expensive, or in heavy demand for curricular support libraries can (should?) implement alternative approaches. Many libraries have recreational collections that are less stringently organized and may include rental collections such as the McNaughton plan for books. If the intent is to expand services specifically targeted to students, (the old "lure them in") solution, a separate recreational video collection might be an appropriate approach. You could also explore commercial solutions for such a collection, such as installing a RedBox (or comparable) service, or even a commercial partnership with a local video store to provide the content.... My $.02 -- deg farrelly, Full Librarian Mail Code 1006 Arizona State University P.O. Box 871006 Tempe, AZ 85287 Phone: 480.965.1403 Email: [email protected] > What are your thoughts? Beyond what your library actually does, what do > you (philosophically) THINK and FEEL is the "best" approach to making a > Media Collection available to faculty and students? Is spreading the > videos throughout the regular collection a good thing? Is a separate > video collection a good thing? Many variables exist (open/closed > stacks, partial integration, partial circulation etc.). 'll gladly > allow myself to be directed to any good articles or links on the subject > too. Thanks. VIDEOLIB is intended to encourage the broad and lively discussion of issues relating to the selection, evaluation, acquisition,bibliographic control, preservation, and use of current and evolving video formats in libraries and related institutions. It is hoped that the list will serve as an effective working tool for video librarians, as well as a channel of communication between libraries,educational institutions, and video producers and distributors.
