부산대학교 도서관

This article provides a study of the selection process for patron-use software programs and data files. It begins with an analysis of the unique characteristics of software--its function, its format, and its mode of publication/distribution. The author discusses whether selection and acquisition can be integrated into existing practices or must be treated in a unique manner. The article covers aspects of the selection process, including the development of a collection policy, the assignment of selection decisions, methods of financing purchases, selection criteria, and the evaluation of individual pieces of software. Sources of information--descriptive, evaluative, and anecdotal--on computer files are listed and described. Acquisition and collection evaluation issues are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]