Collection Development Policy

The collection of the J. Otto Lottes Health Sciences Library at the University of Missouri is developed to meet the present and future information needs of the students, faculty, researchers, health care providers, administrators, and staff of the University Hospital, School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and College of Health Sciences. To meet the needs of these users, the Library collects materials published in all formats, with the following priorities:  

1. Primary research and clinical periodicals in electronic format.  
2. Electronic databases  
3. Electronic books related to biomedical research, medical practice, nursing, allied health, public health, and associated issues.  
4. Current print editions of monographs requested by Library patrons when electronic format is not available or is cost prohibitive.  
5. Current print editions of reference books when electronic format is not available or is cost prohibitive.  

Funds for the purchase of materials are a designated item in the Library budget, which is assigned by the Budget Office. Materials are purchased through a vendor, through a subscription agency, or directly from the publisher. Only English-language materials are acquired. Major emphasis is given to acquiring materials covering the subjects of biomedical research, medical practice, nursing, allied health, public health, and associated issues.   Monetary Gifts You can provide a lasting tribute to a family member, friend, or colleague by making a monetary contribution to the Library for the purchase of a library resource in print or electronic format. You can also support the Library through financial contributions and endowments.     Donating Materials for the Main Collection   Given limitations in space and the cost of processing materials, the library can only consider donations of books and journals for the main collection if they are the most recent edition and if a copy is not already held in our collection.   Historical Materials   Books, papers, artifacts, etc., that are related to the history of Mizzou or Missouri medicine or are rare may be appropriate for the Library’s Rare Book Room or Library Archives.  Any donations accepted, by the library become the property of the library and it reserves the right to determine retention, location, etc. If you believe that your materials may be of historical significance, contact Jennifer Walker.  (Revised June 9 2025)