The new bookshelf

The new bookshelf

The following books were published late in 2004 or the beginning of 2005. The descriptions are based on the publishers’ announcements.

Strategic Planning and Management for Library ManagersJoseph MatthewsLibraries Unlimited2005Paper$40ISBN: 1591582318Libraries embark upon strategic planning projects for a variety of purposes, such as dynamic technology, rising costs, budget cuts, and pressure for change. Joseph Matthews helps library managers develop a greater understanding of the role and responsibilities of strategic planning. His cogent explanations are augmented with examples drawn from real life and recommendations that have stood the test of time. Suggested for all librarians: academic, public, and special. Matthews is an internationally renowned expert on library automation and information systems, and president of Matthews & Associates in Carlsbad, California.Planning and Evaluating Library Networked Services and ResourcesEdited by John Carlo Bertot and Denise M. DavisLibraries Unlimited2004354 pp.Paper$45ISBN: 1563089645Leaders in the area of e-metrics describe techniques to be used in evaluating services that are provided through library networks; among those discussed are collection development, group purchases, and reference services. This comprehensive work services presents guides for developing, testing, and applying instruments to evaluate networks. There is also considerable experiential knowledge concerning what libraries need to do, plan for, and use in e-metrics. Included are contributions from Oliver Pesh, Ebsco; Judith Hiott, Houston Public; Jeff Shim, ARL e-metrics; and Charles McClure. This book is an integrated, updated knowledge base of what has happened in this area since 1998. Bertot is professor in the School of Information Studies at Florida State University and chair of the International Standards Organization’s (ISO) Working Group 4, which develops standards for library performance.Last One out Turn off the Lights: Is This the Future of American and Canadian Libraries?Edited by Susan E. Cleyle and Louise M. McGillisScarecrow Press2005248 pp.Paper$45ISBN: 081085192XLibraries and librarians in the USA and Canada face similar challenges for the future. An impressive group of contributors examine the future of the profession with an eye toward answering the question alluded to in the title: “Is it time to turn off the lights and call it a day?” The editors asked the contributors to “think outside the box and take readers to places they may not have been before.” In response, the authors have suggested creative ways for students and librarians to position themselves in a future society that is “information hungry.” Essays on five topics – the web, library as place, pushing to the desktop, certification, and the future of associations – provide challenging reading and possibilities. Cleyle is an associate university librarian at Memorial University of Newfoundland, and McGillis is an information services librarian at Sir Wilfred Grenfell College, Memorial University in Corner Brook Newfoundland.Managing Information ServicesSue Roberts and Jennifer RowleyFACET, distributed by Neal-Schuman2005242 pp.$75ISBN: 1856045153This basic primer for library and information service professionals, co-authored by a librarian and a management professor, introduces and applies the very latest administrative concepts to the practice of librarianship. The authors cover organizational structure; human resources management; marketing and user relationships; quality control; finance and resources; environment and context; and strategy planning. The content of each chapter is supported by relevant examples, case studies, checklists, models, informative tables, and questions for review. Although intended as an introduction to the practice, experience, and theoretical principles of library management, this authoritative and contemporary resource will also appeal to veteran librarians. This is an ideal LIS textbook and sound preparation for new library leaders. FACET is the imprint of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, formerly the British Library Association.

Edited by Eileen FitzsimonsFitzsimons Editorial Consultants, Chicago, Illinois, USA