What is the process where a library media specialist evaluates current holdings and identifies needs?

The process where a library media specialist evaluates current holdings and identifies needs is known as collection analysis. This practice involves assessing the existing materials within a library to determine how well the collection meets the needs of its users. It helps in identifying gaps in the collection, understanding the demand for certain resources, and making informed decisions about future acquisitions.

Through collection analysis, the media specialist can gather data on usage patterns, user feedback, and alignment with educational standards or curricular needs. This process ensures that the library's resources are relevant, current, and supportive of the educational goals of the institution. By prioritizing the evaluation of holdings, the media specialist enhances the overall quality and effectiveness of the library’s offerings.

In contrast, while deselection refers to the process of removing outdated or no longer relevant materials, and inventorying involves keeping track of the physical items in the collection, collection analysis encompasses a broader evaluation that directly influences future collection development and growth. Bibliographic citation, on the other hand, pertains specifically to the referencing of sources, rather than the assessment of the library's holdings.