New computer-based technologies are causing both evolutionary and revolutionary changes in libraries, heavily affecting the field of collection development. Electronic publishing alone has had profound implications for all areas of collection development in all types of libraries.

This practical manual addresses both traditional and current aspects of collection development as they relate to all aspects of electronic materials including collection development policies, criteria and process; budgeting and acquisitions; organization and maintenance of electronic resources; evaluation and assessment; copyright, licensing, and Intellectual property issues; and preservation.