Prompt Week 5

Those responsible for collection development face constraints of time and money. Professional reviews are often relied on by library professionals who need to be knowledgeable of the newest popular titles. With the vast number of books published yearly, reviews that are found in Publishers Weekly, Booklist, Kirkus and School Library Journal, as well as other genre related publications, allow books that are receiving greater attention to quickly rise to the surface. As library funds are limited, library professionals must be assured that the books that will be in the most demand are available to their patrons. If a book is widely reviewed and popular, it will also be one that is on the radar of library patrons who will be looking for it in some format. Ebook only books, lacking reviews, would be difficult to purchase unless I was already familiar with the author, had received a personal recommendation or a request from a patron.

If I were in charge of collection development for the Adult Department in our library, I would probably add The Billionaire’s First Christmas to the collection, although I do not think the two personal reviews would be factors in my decision.  I might choose a book to read based on an Amazon recommendation, but I would not purchase the title for my library if based only on this ‘amateur’ recommendation. I tend to rely on professional book reviews. The review by the blogger, particularly, was lukewarm in its support. However, since Romances, such as this, seem to be popular with many of our patrons, adding the title to the collection would be justified. 

 However, this title, although belonging to the romance genre, does not seem to be an example of romantic suspense by its description or the comments made by both reviewers. It lacks the fast pacing necessary in a suspense novel. The story is not told from the heroine’s point of view; a necessary element in romantic suspense genre. An element of danger is also missing from the plot.  I would consider The Billionaire’s First Christmas a romance novel.

 I would definitely add Angela’s Ashes to the collection, particularly since all of the reviews enthusiastically recommended the book.  Certain phrases, such as “ powerful, exquisitely written debut” “an extraordinary work in every way”(Kirkus),”almost impossible to put down, may well become a classic” (Library Journal) would compel me to purchase this book without reservation.

The fact that some books receive a great deal of attention and others very little of course affects collection development. A book that receives rave reviews and is highlighted in more than one professional journal is more likely to be noticed and subsequently added to the collection. Following this line of thought, a book that remains ‘under the radar’ of most reviewers may also not be on the radar of those ordering for a library.

I appreciate publications that do not refrain from including negative review, if it is widely known that a publication, such as Booklist, does not publish negative reviews it should have little bearing on purchasing decisions. Since I rely heavily on reviews, as I suspect most who are involved in collection development do, I appreciate reviews such as those found in Kirkus or School Library Journal which provide an honest assessment.  I also just really enjoy Kirkus reviews. They are so well written and fun to read. I imagine those writing for Kirkus also enjoy their work!