Using circulation data to determine whether materials specifically acquired for the circulation collections of libraries at undergraduate institutions show heavy use, this study examined the first 3 years of shelf life of one year's book acquisitions at a small liberal arts college. Contrary to expectations of a high rate of use for newly acquired materials, a large percentage of items did not circulate during the 3-year period. A comparison of the use of the items with the source of the request reveals no significant difference among gifts, faculty requests, or requests from the library staff. Tables and figures showing study results are included. (Author/THC)