"Tending Library Collections" Exhibition at Cooperman Library

Tending Library Collections displayed at the entrance of Cooperman Library. Photo: CJ Gardella/Hunter College.

Tending Library Collections: Weeding for Management and Renewal is an original exhibition on view at Cooperman Library, Floor 3, in Spring and Summer 2026. Introducing the practice of "weeding," a little-known, but essential component of collection management, the exhibition presents how withdrawing outdated, damaged, and extraneous library books is a key step in the collection lifestyle. Weeding is crucial for increasing the browsability and appeal of library shelves, as well as freeing up space for new acquisitions. The cases display examples of deaccessioned volumes from the Hunter College Libraries along with the professional rationale for their removal. The circularity of collection turnover is highlighted by an invitation to browse new books at Cooperman Library and at the Welcome Desk. 

The exhibition is curated by Jennifer Newman, Lily Susman, and Allison Ransom with the support of the Hunter College Libraries (HCL) and the HCL Collection Development and Curation Committee.

Old and new books are showcased in the exhibition. Photo: CJ Gardella/Hunter College.