The purpose of this report is to provide information about the accrual method of Financial accounting for non‐profit organizations, to explain who uses the accrual method and why, and to determine if it poses a problem in managing the business of library acquisitions. This report is in response to concerns raised by acquisitions librarians regarding the uses and interpretations of accrual accounting methods at some institutions. In addition, it includes discussions of the possible ramifications accrual accounting methods can have on the process of acquiring selected library materials, such as serials and standing orders.