Idaho Commission for Libraries

• "Why so many?"
• "Do you give them away to people visiting the library?"
• "We didn't print very many, so is two or three okay?"
• "Do you want extra copies?"

Questions like these reflect some confusion about why we ask for twenty copies of agency publications. Sometimes we get thirty or forty copies on the theory that if twenty is good, more must be better. In most cases, we simply want twenty, no more, no less. That is the number required by depository law. The copies are distributed directly to depository libraries, not to patrons of the Idaho Commission for Libraries.

Each copy is earmarked:

• One is sent to the Idaho Historical Society, Public Archives and Research Library for permanent retention.

• One is sent to the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. to become part of a collection of publications from all U.S. states and territories.

• The remainder are sent to designated depository libraries in Idaho, chosen for their geographic locations and their ability to manage a specialized collection.

We realize that occasionally circumstances influence an agency's ability to supply the full number. For example, the printer may make a mistake, or someone will forget to order enough copies to cover depository requirements. We also make exceptions for certain very expensive publications or for highly technical reports that would not be of general interest to the public.

So, talk to us if you need to negotiate the number of copies. At a minimum, we need three copies. One for the Idaho Historical Society, Public Archives & Research Library. One for the Library of Congress. And, one for the University of Idaho Library Special Collection. The two Idaho libraries have the most comprehensive state government collections in the State. In a pinch, even photocopies are appreciated. Danna Angevine is in charge of acquisitions and will be glad to work with you.

Please keep in mind that when funding is tight, is when you should consider the economies inherent in making information widely available through libraries. Library copies are used more than once and will still be available when your printing run is depleted.

By supplying these copies, you have the option of referring any publication requests to the nearest depository library.