Allocation of Funds

The North Carolina Community College System allocates funds each year to each community college for library books, equipment, salaries, fringe benefits, and other expenses. These allocation are fixed at the state level. The Vice President for Finance recommends distribution of "other expenses." This recommendation is approved by the President and the Board of Trustees.

The Library Director submits an annual budget request that includes periodicals, library and audiovisual equipment. The director is responsible for the distribution of periodicals, which are budgeted in the "magazines and subscriptions" line item. Selection of individual titles is based on criteria listed in "Selection of Materials."

Priorities for purchase of library and audiovisual equipment are set by the director and are determined by the following: demands not met the previous year; formats of materials being added to the AV collection; space needs for cabinets, shelves, etc.; and new programs in the curriculum.

Audiovisual instructional materials are sometimes included in division and program budgets; however, the library orders all audiovisual materials. This ensures central cataloging and avoids duplication of resources. Distribution of funds for these items is the responsibility of division chairs and program directors.

The book fund, which includes audiovisual materials, and automated databases, is administered by the director, to whom requests are made by faculty members, administrators, staff, and students. Factors considered in developing the book collection include the following: new courses and programs; current need and requirements as indicated in student and faculty surveys; strengths and weaknesses in the different disciplines; amount of weeding necessary to keep certain areas updated; and degree of reliance of the department on library books.