Libraries in a Bind: Practical Solutions and Human Responses to a Weeding Mandate

Many university libraries are currently engaged in major weeding projects as they reduce their print book collections to make room for new space configurations to accommodate emerging library trends such as makerspaces and transitioning toward a predominately e‐book collection.To address such a deselection project effectively requires both practical solutions and tact in dealing with faculty who seriously value their collections of print books. Librarians from two universities will share practical approaches to managing a large weeding project and for dealing diplomatically with book users affected. Representatives for deselection project services will also offer insights into their logistic support for handling weeding projects. Ample time will be provided for discussion where collection librarians can candidly discuss both the practical problems and user concerns faced when sandwiched between the demands of a major weeding project and the needs of faculty and students in book‐reliant disciplines.