Based on personal experience with nearly a dozen different library assessment projects, Baird has pulled together the salient points that librarians should bear in mind when planning to assess their collections. Following a brief discussion of why assessment is important, he covers such basics as how to gather information, interpret it, and use it to further the mission of the library. Liberally sprinkled with examples from the projects he has worked on, Baird's guide will help both new and experienced librarians conceptualize the assessment strategy that best fits the mission of their collection.