Standard sudoku puzzles use the numbers 1 through 9. As it happens, there are nine main phases in the life of almost every library book—from when it is first chosen to be added to the collection, to when it is ultimately withdrawn. In each of the next nine Sudoku posts, we will share a few tidbits of information about a specific phase, information that is generally known only by library workers, but which might be interesting to anyone who uses the library.
The first phase in the life of a library book takes place before it even gets to the building: Selection. Library staff consult review sources like journals (e.g., Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus Reviews), websites (e.g., Book Riot), and suggestions from patrons to identify books that are likely to be of interest to the community. Children’s Room staff select Children’s Room materials, Young Adult Services staff select YA materials, and Reference staff make recommendations to the Assistant Director for Technical Services and Collection Development.
Next month’s sudoku puzzle will highlight the second phase in the life of a library book: Ordering.
We hope you enjoy this month’s puzzle!