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Essex Libraries aims to get new stock on to the shelves as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. In order to reduce servicing requirements, increase standardisation further and align with The Libraries Consortium (TLC), Essex Libraries have begun categorising new stock according to the UK Standard Library Categories (UKSLC).
The budget allocated by Essex Libraries for the purchase of library materials is set at the beginning of each financial year. The service will use performance indicators and other stock management information to divide the budget between different categories of stock and these allocations are reviewed and confirmed by the Senior Management Team.
Although the stock budgets for each category of stock are set at the beginning of each financial year, changing circumstances may lead to the re-allocation of budgets or the diversion of funds to priority areas, as required.
Many traditional reference works are now available online. Where the provision of this information is more cost-effective, current and accessible in this format, it will be provided digitally in place of print forms.
These subscriptions are reviewed annually.
Essex Libraries currently use BorrowBox as their main supplier. The service also has an offer with OverDrive.
Thirteen libraries are supplied with new DVDs, and four libraries hold music CDs. A small selection of branches may offer older collections of DVDs due to the specific needs of the community. Customers can borrow any DVD or CD in stock via the reservation service. The items can then be collected from a library of the customer’s choice.
A range of DVD titles are purchased for the library service, including films, TV series, children’s DVDs, exercise, fitness and dance, and World Cinema. A standard hire charge applies to all DVDs and CDs.