Collection Relocation FAQs

Why is this project necessary?

The on-campus libraries have run out of space. If newer or more heavily used materials are to remain on campus, less frequently used books and periodicals must be housed at SAL Livermore, or, as it is called, SAL 3. The project's goal is to select for off-campus relocation those items that will cause the least disruption to faculty and students.

How are items selected for on-campus retention or relocation to SAL 3?

The Libraries' subject specialists, in consultation with the faculty, will make the selection. Locations of materials will depend on the needs of academic programs and so will vary according to discipline. The general criteria for decisions are summarized in Collection Management Guiding Principles and General Plan. This document was discussed and
endorsed by the Faculty Senate's Committee on Libraries on Dec. 10, 2002.

If a book is sent to SAL 3, can it be brought back as part of the collection?

Any book, periodical or other materials relocated to SAL 3 may be brought back to SAL 1/2 or to a core campus library shelving location if circulation or programmatic reasons warrant it. Subject specialists will routinely review any item recalled from SAL 3 more than twice in a year and consider it for return to campus.

How long will it take to page a book from SAL 3?

Items requested from SAL 3 will be available within 24 hours.

Why is the new shelving facility located off campus?

Off-campus siting is necessary because Stanford's General Use Permit severely limits the square footage of new buildings the University may construct on campus. The distance from campus is also related to the high cost of land in nearby areas and to the requirement that the facility be located within a 500-year flood plain.

For multidisciplinary fields, is it possible to make recommendations regarding materials in more than one subject area?

Yes, but faculty members are asked first to contact their own subject specialist, who is responsible for facilitating contact with other subject specialists.