Selection
The selection process for library materials (documents and teaching materials) is a meticulous one.

The main objective is to satisfy the community’s need for information, this implies that the user determines the type of materials needed. The Library Committee must also guide users in order to optimize resources and to ensure the quality of materials.

A special library’s holdings must include: dictionaries, encyclopedias, yearbooks manuals, indexes, atlases, almanacs, biographical materials, statistics materials, videotapes, data bases, CD’s and microfiche if necessary.

The use of supplier catalogs is vital during the acquisitions process. These catalogs can be found on line or in print and other specialized materials, like “Books in Print” (for books) or “ULRICH’S Periodical Directory” (for magazines) can be of assistance. Library catalogs can also be checked by author, titles, subjects, ISBN, in the case of books or similar materials, and ISSN for magazines.

Concepts
ISBN (ISO 2108 NORM)


This is an identification number for books and is also a numeric code. This code is used to locate and search for books within the editorial business, it allows the coordination and standardization of book identifying. The code is made up of ten digits, preceded by the letters ISBN. (ISBN 84-369-3532-2.)

I. Group Identifier
II. Publisher code
III. Item Number
IV. Check Sum

The ISBN code appears on the following materials: books, printed pamphlets, audio books, maps, microfiche publications, electronic materials (publications such as tapes), CD-ROM and monographic works found on the Internet.

ISSN

This a standardized number used to identify a print or electronic periodical publications. It’s an accepted code which is precise and unmistakable.

Acquisitions

The material should be bought by the library’s Acquisitions Department, this includes: buying audiovisual materials, magazines and teaching materials. The accounting department should aid in this task.


Large Suppliers and Groups

Currently, this consists of buying bibliographical materials, data bases and audiovisual materials through different groups and suppliers so that things are acquired at the best price possible.

ISTEC and CONACYT Library Network are the main groups the library works with. The Library is currently negotiating prices with suppliers like EBSCO and SwetsBlackwell, that will supply magazines, data bases, among others. This will keep the library’s acquisitions at a reasonable price.