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Collection Policies

Information about the Oxford Library Collections

Material Reconsideration


Acquisition of library materials are guided by established collection policy. Oxford College Library builds, provides and stewards contemporary and historical collections which include a diversity of viewpoints and experiences, and, in doing so, encourage critical and thoughtful discourse and engagement with multiple perspectives. We are cognizant that authors may misstate facts, reach erroneous conclusions, use offensive language, or may make claims that in fact or perception can be hurtful to other parties. However, their works remain part of the publication record, and may still prove valuable to library patrons Librarians and library staff are not required to endorse the principles, ideas, opinions, or views of the library materials they provide. However, they do play an essential role in providing tools and guidance for addressing misinformation, dubious scholarship and bias.  
 
It is therefore Oxford College Library’s general practice not to immediately withdraw materials upon request. Upon receiving a reconsideration request, the Library may document and reference the objections raised regarding the materials, including adding any corrections, errata, warnings or notices about inaccurate information, to the catalog record or on the item itself.  

Please note that some library collection materials are held under agreements that govern return, withdrawal, or destruction of those materials and these commitments will be upheld (e.g., Government Documents). Requests impacting gifts are covered under the Gifts and Donations section of the Collection Development Policy.

Objections to specific items in the collection should contact the Oxford College Library.

Review of the materials will follow a designated process and be communicated promptly to the requestor.