Collection Development & Deaccession Policy
The purpose of this policy is to communicate transparently to the CMU community and beyond about the processes and considerations underlying decisions about acquisitions and deaccessioning of materials in the University’s general library collections; to identify what materials are collected and what materials are not collected, and on what basis materials are removed from collections; to detail the process for community members to make acquisition requests or requests to remove material from the collections.
Collection Development for Special Collections
CMU Special Collections acquires books, manuscripts, and artifacts that document the history of science and technology; mechanical, symbolic, and digital computing; cryptology; book history and design; and early English literature. Our collection development strategy is keyed to these collecting priorities and themes, but we consider gifts in other fields on a case-by-case basis.
Food Policy
The Carnegie Mellon University Libraries is committed to supporting teaching, learning, and research efforts at the university. To ensure that the physical spaces of the Libraries continue to enhance the quality of the CMU student experience, we ask that you please observe the following policies, which apply to our Hunt, Sorrells, and Mellon Institute locations as well as the Posner Center.
Animals
Only service animals and emotional support animals with approval from the CMU Office of Disability Resources are permitted in library buildings. Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities, and they must be housebroken and kept under control at all times. Pets or other emotional support animals not explicitly approved by the Office of Disability Resources are not permitted in library buildings. Please see the CMU Student Handbook and Emotional Support Animal Guidelines for more information.
Gifts of Books, Journals & Audio/Visual Materials
The Carnegie Mellon University Library collection is developed not only through purchase, but also through the highly selective acceptance of suitable gifts.
Statement on Electronic Resources Use
Licensed electronic resources are provided for academic research to authorized users who are affiliated with Carnegie Mellon University and/or on the campus network. The use of electronic resources is governed by copyright law and by the terms of license agreements between Carnegie Mellon University and individual vendors/publishers.
Using Special Collections
Special Collections is open to all for research and instruction. Special Collections materials do not circulate and are only accessible on site in the Fine & Rare Book Rooms (Hunt Library, 4th floor). All researchers must make an appointment and request materials at least two business days in advance of each visit.