Periodicals are publications that are released regularly, such as weekly, monthly, quarterly, or daily. Numerous subjects can be covered by these publications, such as news, current affairs, academic research, entertainment, hobbies, and more. Newspapers, magazines, journals, newsletters, and bulletins are examples of periodicals.
Periodicals are distinguished by their periodicity, which is their publication at regular intervals over an extended period. They frequently include editorials, stories, essays, articles, and ads. Periodicals can provide readers with entertainment and leisure reading, analysis, and commentary on interesting subjects, or news about current events, among other things.
Periodicals are usually published regularly in series after certain intervals. The periodical collection is the lifeblood of all types of libraries. The periodical collection complements the library’s core collection. Periodicals are selected keeping in mind the objectives and goals of different types of libraries. As the main role is educational and entertaining, there is a diverse selection of periodicals based on the quality of education, livelihood, environment, and overall needs of the readers. Again, in the school library, the school syllabus and the educational and entertaining magazines of the students are kept. Various types of periodicals are maintained in higher education institutions. Special libraries have social prominence for high-level research on specific topics. Besides, special importance is given to the temporary association of waiting books in special libraries. Because, new research, new information, and progress on the subject are first published through periodicals,. In fact, the special library periodical collection is a very important part of the core collection. Collections of periodicals are formed in three ways:
1. By subscription to money exchange
2. By exchange and
3. By giving or receiving as a gift.
Periodical Requirement:
• Periodicals keep the library collection up-to-date;
• Enrich the weak part of the library’s book collection, i.e. fill the gaps in the periodical collection where the subject book collection is not adequate;
• Discloses progress or up-to-date information on any subject;
• Libraries are considered essential components of collections and complete the overall status of the collection;
• Research findings are the first to be published;
• The library complements the collection and serves as a complement to the library collection;
• Journals of book criticism serve as essential tools for librarians’ book selection;
• Entertainment periodicals are considered as the best medium of library entertainment.
Selection Policy
• Selection policies are formulated according to the objectives and goals of the library.
• Selection of thematic periodicals is based on the opinion of subject experts;
• Decision is taken in the context of library budget allocation before subscribing to periodicals;
• Readers’ needs are prioritized according to the variety of libraries;
• Temperature control is required to maintain the temporary storage system of the library;
• Publications, Editorial Boards, and Authors’ writing quality are considered in the selection of periodicals. Sample copies are collected as needed and reader feedback is verified.
Libraries can create well-rounded periodical collections that meet the informational, educational, and recreational needs of their patrons by taking these aspects and selection criteria into account.
