In July 2020, the DePaul University Library collection development policy was changed temporarily to “e-preferred” for books, video, duplicate items, and course reserves to synchronize with the University and Library’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. An increased emphasis on access to online content over physical materials was decided upon because of limited on-site staffing, limited hours of operation, and hygiene protocols required for the handling of items.
Whereas, current safety concerns are mitigated by an improving public health situation, a continued reduction in the number of scheduled in-person courses is expected during the Summer and Fall 2021 academic quarters along with an increase in the number of hybrid and online courses. The following e-preferred collection policy will continue through the end of calendar year 2021 at which time it will be reassessed.
E-preferred does not mean e-only. Under an e-preferred model, library liaisons to academic departments are encouraged to select an online version whenever available. Some examples of exceptions include print format books specifically requested by faculty, titles for which an online version does not exist, or when purchase of an online version is not offered to institutions.