Selection policy

Items suitable for inclusion in the collection are assessed on an individual basis but the text should contain substantial or relevant detail particular to Birmingham. Priority is given to texts offering a new or updated perspective. The acquisition of items is also made in light of the subject remits of other reference sections in the Library of Birmingham.

Donation

Items offered for donation to the collection will be assessed individually in relation to whether they are suitable for inclusion based upon the following considerations:

1. the text should contain substantial or relevant detail particular to Birmingham
2. priority is given to texts offering a new or updated perspective on Birmingham’s history
3. the assessment of the donation will be made in light of the subject remits of other reference collections in the Library of Birmingham and offered to those more appropriate to the overall content of the book/item.
4. our policy is to retain two copies maximum of publications which are of interest to the local community.

Purchases

New acquisitions to the collection will be purchased based upon the considerations identified in donations and the following factors:

1. cost of the book
2. if the book will have appeal to a range of communities
3. if the publisher is reputable
4. if the request can be fulfilled by our supplier