media handbook
Weeding
Weeding should be a continuous process rather than occurring
only once during the school year. A record of areas that have been
weeded and when it was done should be kept.
Teachers should be included in the weeding process in their subject
areas. Weeding includes print and non-print materials and
equipment.
Guidelines for weeding:
Discard old editions when replaced by new ones.
Discard encyclopedias every 5 years. Use for checkout to students
or for classroom collections.
Weed and discard magazines once a year.
Discard any media when the content is so out-of-date that it is no
longer useful.
Discard media when paper, film or tape becomes brittle or
discolored.
Discard or transfer media if grade level of school changes making
materials inappropriate.
Discard materials, both print and non-print, that have not been
used for 3-5 years and do not appear in a standard list.
Procedures for discarding:
Withdraw item to be discarded from the collection. Clearly mark
each title "Discard".
Remove the item from the automation system by removing the barcode
(if a multiple copy) or the record from Materials (if a single
copy).
Maintain a written record noting the discard or disposal of media
center equipment.
Options for disposal:
Place in a classroom collection.
Pack in small boxes for disposal. Boxes should be clearly marked "Discard".
Give magazines to students.
Cut up and use if appropriate in the vertical file.
