Popularity comes, popularity goes. As librarians we’re always balancing between what will circulate like crazy and what we need to have in the collection. And we’re not the Library of Congress – we can’t (and shouldn’t) keep everything.

An endangered series is one that appears to be waning in terms of popularity. But popularity isn’t everything. Should it stay, or should it go? Or think of it this way – if you were starting a library today, would this series make the cut? Let’s discuss.

Cam Jansen by David Adler, illustrated by Susanna Natti

First appearing in 1980, Cam Jansen has become a staple mystery series for young readers. Spin-off early reader series Young Cam Jansen began in 1996.

The Case for Keeping: Sturdy and straightforward mystery tales, these are reliable reads for those just getting into the genre.

The Case for Not: There are plenty of mystery series out there.

Refresh?: As the series has gone on, updates to covers and a new illustrator have helped keep the series fresh.

My Verdict: Hanging on, but not for long.

How are you handing this series in your library?

Previously:

Endangered Series #1: The Boxcar Children

Endangered Series #2: The Hardy Boys

Endangered Series #3: American Girl

Endangered Series #4: The Baby Sitter’s Club

Endangered Series #5: The Bailey School Kids

Endangered Series #6: Cam Jansen