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Developing a unit

When developing your Prescribed Text and Recommended Reading lists for a new or revised unit, it's important to ensure that everything on the list is available through the Library. Your Liaison Librarian can assist with finding suitable resources for these lists and ensure the availability of these resources. When new units are proposed, or changes to units are made, academics should request a Library Impact Statement.

What is a Library Impact Statement?

The Library Impact Statement provides the information needed to ensure the Library has the necessary resources to support the unit. A Library Impact Statement is prepared by the Library in consultation with the requestor. According to University policy, any proposal for a new or modified unit should have a Library Impact Statement attached to it when it is submitted to the Programs Committee of Academic Board.

A Library Impact Statement will:

  • provide an assessment of the adequacy of existing resources
  • determine new resources needed and the cost of acquiring these
  • suggest information skills education required to support the unit
  • describe potential Library staffing impacts

The Library will undertake to complete all Library Impact Statements within two (2) weeks of receiving the request.

It is the responsibility of the School or College proposing the new or modified course or unit to obtain a Library Impact Statement before the proposal goes to the Programs Committee of Academic Board.

The Library Impact Statement should accompany any course or unit proposal seeking resource approval from the Executive Dean and in subsequent approvals through the Programs Committee of Academic Board.

When is a Library Impact Statement required?

Course or Unit ChangeLIS RequiredComments
New Course Concept ProposalNoResource impact approval by Director, Library Services, pending preparation of Library Impact Statement.
Course Accreditation SubmissionYesLibrary Impact Statement required for submission to Programs Committee of Academic Board.
Course Change SubmissionYesCheck with relevant Liaison Librarian if Library Impact Statement required for submission to Programs Committee of Academic Board.
New UnitYesLibrary Impact Statement required.
Modified UnitYesLibrary Impact Statement required for any changes that will have a substantial impact on Library resources and services e.g. revised lists of prescribed and recommended resources; changes in the mode or location of delivery.

Updated: 02 January 2013