| (a) All materials that are available for distribution
to borrowers are distributed either by specific request of the borrower
or through an automated selection process based on an array of variables
chosen by the borrower. The agency monitors borrowers' requests and
attempts to keep items in stock that borrowers are likely to demand.
Availability of items such as books and magazines are subject to the
following circumstances:
(1) popular demand for a particular item;
(2) whether an item has been damaged and removed from
the collection;
(3) ability of staff to acquire and/or replace an item;
or,
(4) whether an item has been lost.
(b) From time to time, shortages of books, equipment,
and other items for distribution to borrowers may occur. In the event
of a shortage that will be widespread or has the potential to be of
some duration, the agency will institute a special process of distribution
to ensure that items are made available to borrowers in an efficient
and equitable manner. The type of process used will be determined
by the specific type of shortage and in consultation with staff of
the National Library Service.
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