Publication Type
Blog Post
Version
publishedVersion
Publication Date
9-2026
Abstract
Academic libraries are no strangers to large-scale deselection exercises. Driven by space constraints, evolving curricula, and the shift towards digital resources, the question is no longer whether to withdraw print materials, but what comes next. In the past year, SMU Libraries explored a different answer: instead of recycling withdrawn books, could we reimagine their next chapter, and rehome them to create meaningful impact for the community?
Keywords
Academic libraries, Collection deselection, Book rehoming, Collection management, Community engagement, Library sustainability, Print collections, Resource sharing
Discipline
Education | Library and Information Science | Sustainability
Publication
ACCESS
First Page
1
Last Page
5
Embargo Period
9-15-2026
Citation
HENG, Kai Leong and YEO, Eng Ling Lynn.
From withdrawal to impact: SMU Libraries’ book rehoming initiatives. (2026). ACCESS. 1-5.
Available at: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/library_research/252
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Additional URL
https://librarylearningspace.com/from-withdrawal-to-impact-smu-libraries-book-rehoming-initiatives/