Collections Support Services
The mission of the Collections Support Services (CSS) is to effectively acquire, process, and ensure access to information resources that support teaching, learning, and research at Oakland University.
CSS is responsible for acquiring and processing information resources and data with which OU users can discover, locate, and access information, resources, and services. The group keeps current with changing standards and provides recommendations to stakeholders about the description of the Library’s collections and resources.
Led by the Coordinator of Collections Support Services, the CSS group is comprised of several dedicated individuals who provide the following functions:
Resource Acquisitions
The Acquisitions Team is responsible for verifying order requests, placing orders, receiving and processing payment for all materials added to the Library's collection, and handling intake of gifts and resources, including monographs, serials, videos, and electronic resources in various languages and across all disciplines. This team is responsible for the effective delivery of tens of thousands of electronic journals and print serials in the Library's Web site and other systems. Activities span the acquisition, licensing, access management, renewals, record maintenance, and troubleshooting of issues. The Team works closely with the Library's subject liaisons/selectors and multiple vendors to facilitate the acquisitions process, acquiring needed materials quickly and efficiently.
Collections Description and Access
The Cataloging/Metadata Team is responsible for the intellectual organization, cataloging, and classification of resources, including physical resources, digital assets, government information, and gifts selected by the Library, and for adding this information to the Library's systems and applications so that users can discover, find, and retrieve the resources they need.
Materials Processing
CSS staff members prepare all library materials for shelving and use: attaching classification and property labels, and binding looseleaf and small-format items. Staff also repair, bind and/or reformat materials, using industry-approved standards for quality and longevity. The team responds to emergencies involving damage to library materials, and provides work in shelving, handling, and repair practices that protect the life of the collections.