Political Science « Augusta State University

Library Collection Development Policy

I. Mission Statement

The Department of Political Science provides students a well rounded program of study focusing on the theoretical, methodological and applied approaches to politics, governmental systems, and public administration. The Department and its degree programs prepare students to exercise political responsibility at the local, state, national, and international levels. The Department prepares students for advanced study in graduate and professional schools, and careers in government, public administration, international relations and the private sector.

II. Collection Levels

Level 1: (Minimum Development) Materials which support POLS 1101 and PHIL 1000. Includes introductory works in American Government and Philosophy, encyclopedias, current news magazines and papers.

Level 2: (Basic Development) Materials which support all 2000 and 3000 numbered courses. Includes standard works in political science, international relations, public administration, and philosophy, government documents, core journals, and internet access.

Level 3: (Intermediate Development) Materials which support all 4000 numbered courses. Beyond what is required in level 2, materials at this level must include primary source material, critical and analytical studies, and an expanded selection of journals to cover specialized sub-fields (for example, urban government).

Level 4: (Advanced Development) Materials which support graduate students. Requires specialized books, critical studies and analytical reports in Public Administration, and an expanded selection of journals to cover specialized sub-fields (for example, public personnel management) beyond those listed under Level 3.

III. Statement of Short-Term Collection Goals

Funding will be on an equally shared basis until such time as a short-fall is identified in any of the department's areas. Should such a short-fall be identified, that area will receive priority funding until the identified area is on an equal status with other areas in the department.

IV. Description of Department Procedures for Ordering

Each faculty member is free to select and order his or her own books for the library, after review and recommendations of the department chair, using his or her share of the departmental budget.