Focusing on cataloging operations contingent upon public catalog usage, this article identifies necessary components of a collection access policy, discusses representative samples of policies that can be adapted to individual library practices, and provides guidelines for the development and implementation of a statement useful for planning future services. Sections include catalog and file maintenance, AACR2 impact, retrospective conversion, departmental workflow, special materials, OCLC usage, classification, descriptive cataloging, and backlog control. A 5-year (1979-1983) literature survey provides current documentation. In addition, background information and commentary are included. Guidelines are formulated as a basis for developing a written manual for library staff usage. (Author/DMC)