Assefa, GetachewSamek, ToniAmbler, Chelsea2012-07-132012-11-132012-07-132012http://hdl.handle.net/11023/118This Master’s thesis investigates collection management from a life cycle sustainability perspective. The final aim of this research is to support the integration of disposal within collection management decision-making through the design of an evaluative framework and supportive tool. Deselection is recognized as an important management tool for collection sustainability. Due to impacts inherent to any disposal activity, collection disposal falls under professional responsibilities of responsible resource management. How deselected material is then handled is an important component of the sustainable library. A history of libraries and collection management, from acquisition to disposal, is examined. This is supported by a qualitative analysis of current collection disposal experiences in Alberta and a quantitative analysis of collection deselection in Canada. A life cycle assessment method is proposed and disposal impacts are identified and assessed. Viewing collections from a life cycle perspective, including disposal, provides additional insight to further promote sustainable collection management.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.Environmental Sciencescollection disposalcollection managementdecision-makingdeselectionevidence based library and information practicelibrariesLife Cycle Assessmentsustainable collection managementmaster thesis10.11575/PRISM/25968