[Videolib] Opinions wanted on TV shows on DVD in public libraries

Renee Zurn (rzurn@duluth.lib.mn.us)
Wed, 27 Aug 2003 14:40:12 -0500

I would like your opinion. I am the Media Librarian for a medium-sized
public library that just started our DVD collection last fall. We
currently have about 350 different DVD's, mostly classics and best
sellers but I have purchased award-winning cable tv shows such as "The
Sopranos." My thoughts were that many people do not have cable and can
not watch the shows so a library should have them. My VHS collection
does contain some tv shows, mainly the public television shows such as
"Keeping up Appearances" and "Red Dwarf."

In the past week I have received two requests from patrons that I
purchase older tv shows that are being released on DVD. The requests
have been for "Bonanza" and "Due South." Both patrons want me to
purchase all episodes as they get released. DVD's take up less space
than VHS but my budget has not increased to cover purchasing in two
formats. I have also had requests that I purchase all the recordings
available of the current BBC comedies being shown on our local public tv
station, "Are You Being Served" and "Days of Wine and Roses."

What is your library policy about purchasing tv shows? What do you
think a public library should carry? Should this be a case by case
decision -yes to "Bonanza" as classic tv but no to "Due South" as
non-award winner tv show?

Renee Zurn
Media Librarian
Duluth Public Library
Duluth MN 55802
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