Essential Written Plans, Policies, and Procedures for Collections-Holding Institutions

Having written plans, policies, and procedures in place that assist in the governing, planning, and maintenance of collections is vital in order for institutions to have properly functioning and thriving collections. Policies and procedures are essential documents for any collections-holding institution to have in place.

These documents are very important in the efficient, effective day-to-day operation of organizations, but they become essential in times of change and transition. Having practices articulated in writing helps the organization’s staff and volunteers know how their predecessors determined they should carry out the activities of collections care and management, even if those predecessors are not in the room to ask directly.