Collection Management

The Collection Management Division is responsible for managing the Library’s collections to enable ready access for users both onsite and online through the catalogue.

The Division's main work areas include:

• acquisitions
• cataloguing
• collection development
• licensing
• digital preservation and archiving
• digitising initiatives
• imaging and reformatting 
• conservation
• preservation
• storage.

While the Library’s collections are predominantly print-based, electronic materials – especially web-based datasets – are increasingly being added to the collections. Selected materials, particularly from the Rare Printed and Pictures Collections, are being digitised for greater accessibility and preservation.

With the growth of online technologies, the Collection Mangement Division has developed extensive experience and knowledge in digitisation, digital preservation and metadata. This has enabled the Library to provide web-based access to more than 200,000 images, maps, pamphlets and music scores.

The Division is also responsible for acquiring all Victorian publications. Online publications are added to PANDORA, a national online archive managed by the National Library of Australia.

The Division's Storage, Preservation and Conservation Unit prepares all collection material for exhibitions and public viewings throughout Victoria and ensures that the Library's collection care and storage strategy adheres to industry best practice.