Collection Development Manual > Libraries & Collections > Special Collections > World Languages Collection
World Languages Collection
Collection Policy
The library provides materials on language instruction in book and non-book format for many languages, along with materials for non-English speakers. Through demographic data and community and staff input, the library has identified four target languages for the focus of our international language materials: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Russian.
The Chinese, Vietnamese and Russian collections are housed at various library locations throughout the county where the need is greatest. These materials, both juvenile and adult, are purchased through vendor plans. Materials in some alternate formats are also provided - for example, videos, DVDs and recorded books. The Chinese, Vietnamese and Russian collections are small and are designed to provide current titles for these users.
The Spanish collection is the largest of the target languages collections and aimed at meeting the informational, educational and recreational needs of Spanish-speaking residents of Multnomah County. All libraries have some Spanish-language materials, depending on neighborhood demographics and patron demand. The collection includes adult non-fiction materials - useful to new immigrants, and fiction - both classics and popular titles. Juvenile materials focus on early literacy support, non-fiction on homework topics and a general fiction collection. The Spanish collection contains books, CDs, videos, dvds, graphic novels and magazines.
The library also purchases popular and literary titles in other languages where demand warrants. This collection is primarily housed at Central Library. There are a few juvenile collections at library locations that help support immersion programs at local schools. The focus of these collections are for users who wish to read materials in other languages for pleasure or instruction.
Language Collections at Neighborhood Libraries and Central