Technology is a crucial part of libraries today. But when it comes to figuring out the most effective technologies for their library or to planning for future technology needs, many librarians don't know where to begin. Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow is the place to start. This practical guide will be of special value to those in small- and medium-size libraries, especially those new to the planning process who have not previously implemented technology or who have had difficulty implementing strategic plans. By using this LITA guide overwhelmed librarians can create a sound, realistic technology plan and implementing that plan by identifying each step necessary to accomplish the library's goals. As they follow this road map from beginning to end, library staff will be able to meet the technology needs of their communities and to achieve their library's technology goals. This step-by-step guide takes the reader through the process of successfully creating and implementing a library technology plan. Each chapter addresses an aspect of planning and implementation-from conducting a technology audit and selecting appropriate devices to deploying new technologies and training staff and users. Further, this LITA guide will help librarians evaluate the success of their work in developing and implementing their technology plans.

The third edition of Preserving Digital Materials provides a survey of the digital preservation landscape. This book is structured around four questions: 1. Why do we preserve digital materials? 2. What digital materials do we preserve? 3. How do we preserve digital materials? 4. How do we manage digital preservation? This is a concise handbook and reference for a wide range of stakeholders who need to understand how preservation works in the digital world. It notes the increasing importance of the role of new stakeholders and the general public in digital preservation. It can be used as both a textbook for teaching digital preservation and as a guide for the many stakeholders who engage in digital preservation. Its synthesis of current information, research, and perspectives about digital preservation from a wide range of sources across many areas of practice makes it of interest to all who are concerned with digital preservation. It will be of use to preservation administrators and managers, who want a professional reference text, information professionals, who wish to reflect on the issues that digital preservation raises in their professional practice, and students in the field of digital preservation.

What are the leading tools and archives in digital cultural heritage? How can they be integrated into research infrastructures to better serve their intended audiences? In this book, authors from a wide range of countries, representing some of the best research projects in digital humanities related to cultural heritage, discuss their latest findings, both in terms of new tools and archives, and how they are used (or not used) by both specialists and by the general public.

Using Social Media to Build Library Communities: A LITA Guide is a community-building action manual for practitioners across the profession. By bringing together an array of perspectives to explore community building through social media, this book serves as the go-to resource for professionals who want to take social media beyond marketing and promotion to build an inclusive and engaged community of library users. Each chapter contains clear explanations of important topics for building communities through social media, and readers will come away with cohesive approaches for their own libraries. Using Social Media to Build Library Communities demonstrates that an energetic and committed community exists to help and guide fellow community builders.

Designed for experienced librarians, librarians new to the profession, and library school students, Online Teaching and Learning: A Practical Guide for Librarians provides a comprehensive framework that encompasses all aspects of planning, designing, creating, implementing, and assessing online learning for all types of libraries, including public, academic, special, and K-12. It also provides a valuable guide for teachers, administrators, and other educators. Online Teaching and Learning: A Practical Guide for Librarians features three main sections: *Section I: Theory into Practice forms the basis in theory of learning that ultimately influences practice. It includes definition, importance in today's society, benefits and challenges, and categories and types of online learning with examples to illustrate each. *Section II: Creating Online Instruction explores how to create an online course--describing components and stepping through the process using a model on the topic of information literacy. Design and instructional tips for creating other types of online instruction are also given. *Section III: Practical Applications provides examples of different types of online instruction and materials in all types of libraries. Then, step-by-step detail explains how librarians can create this type of instruction and/or learning materials on their own. Included are worksheets, handouts, and exercises. Online Teaching and Learning: A Practical Guide for Librarians puts it all together to provide what the library must consider as it prepares for this new challenge and opportunity. It provides a comprehensive guide instructing online programs how to employ library services as part of their program. It is also designed to instruct librarians to incorporate the skills necessary to build a virtual library environment and teach the skills required to meet the needs of online learners. As the educational landscape changes with blended and online learning taking center stage, new and established librarians need a guide to inform them of skills they will need and show them how to create the resources for their new online audience.

New Methods of Teaching and Learning in Libraries is a one-stop introduction to the role of technology in teaching and learning in libraries. Emerging models of library instruction and library support of instruction will be presented. Increasingly, librarians are called upon to partner with educational faculty and community members to deliver content and support innovative educational initiatives. Since libraries reach across academic disciplines and provide resources for the greater community, they are uniquely positioned to provide services and technologies that are available to many, bringing innovation out of silos and facilitating innovation in the community. Chapters covered include: * Active Learning in Collaborative Spaces * Creating Library Spaces that Foster Creation * Teaching Beyond the Library Walls * Teaching Skills for Career Success * Multimedia in Library Education * The Future of Mobile Libraries * Teaching and Learning in the Library of the Future Innovative programs will be highlighted and practical examples will be provided.

New Methods of Teaching and Learning in Libraries is a one-stop introduction to the role of technology in teaching and learning in libraries. Emerging models of library instruction and library support of instruction will be presented. Increasingly, librarians are called upon to partner with educational faculty and community members to deliver content and support innovative educational initiatives. Since libraries reach across academic disciplines and provide resources for the greater community, they are uniquely positioned to provide services and technologies that are available to many, bringing innovation out of silos and facilitating innovation in the community. Chapters covered include: * Active Learning in Collaborative Spaces * Creating Library Spaces that Foster Creation * Teaching Beyond the Library Walls * Teaching Skills for Career Success * Multimedia in Library Education * The Future of Mobile Libraries * Teaching and Learning in the Library of the Future Innovative programs will be highlighted and practical examples will be provided.

Integrating LibGuides into Library Websites introduces ideas and options for both newer users and administrators. This book covers responsive, mobile-first web design, and provides overviews and in-depth information for LibGuides authors and administrators. Topics covered include: *Introduction: If you're new to LibGuides, learn the ins and outs as well as how to maximize functionality through the use of the new version and LibApps *Administration and Management: Learn about the administrator's role in LibGuides and how you foster cooperation and integration between content creators and users *Usability and Accessibility: Using theoretical and concrete ideas, improve LibGuides content and user experience *Pedagogy: Through tips and best practices, learn how to enhance the classroom experience by incorporating LibGuides into teaching Level-up your LibGuides content with improved accessibility and usability. Imbue your LibGuides instructional support with sound pedagogical theory. It's great to have a useful, accessible site as a starting point. Take your LibGuides to the next level using sound pedagogical design and practices. Through detailed instructions and real life examples, this authoritative LITA Guide provides you with the tools and knowledge to enhance and invigorate your LibGuides experience.

Innovative LibGuides Applications: Real World Examples shows both new and experienced users methods to utilize the platform in ways that they may not have previously considered. This includes topics such as website and learning management system integration, digital collections, data-drive decision-making, information literacy instruction, library administration, and a system-wide case study. Each chapter features ideas that you can implement immediately, or over time, as is appropriate to your own needs. Further, they are adaptable-tweak as you see fit! Divided into sections, this book examines different uses and approaches to LibGuides: * Website and learning management system (LMS) integration: examine how LibGuides can be used as, or closely integrated with, the library website and/or your institutions' LMS. Various examples are provided that you may be able to adapt at your own organization. Not every solution worked as anticipated-our authors address this, as well. * Digital collections: Two alternate approaches are presented. One looks at exhibitions and their application as outreach tools. The other looks at creating a digital museum within LibGuides. These are "can't miss" chapters for those that wish to more deeply explore digital collections and LibGuides viability. * Data-drive decision-making: Learn how some institutions are mining and utilizing data collected within LibApps/LibGuides. In both cases, the data examined helped institutions to improve library services while articulating a clear purpose (and use) for each data point. * Information literacy: Explore two different methods for revamping your instruction program through utilization of the platform. * Library administration: Discover how internal and external processes may be augmented through the use of LibApps/LibGuides. * System-wide case study: See how a community college system in North Carolina has each implemented (or not) LibApps/LibGuides on their respective campuses. This section shows how different institutions may decide to use the platform in different ways-all while attempting to improve their own services. Upon completion of this authoritative LITA Guide, readers will come away with the knowledge and tools to maximize their LibGuides experience

Innovative LibGuides Applications: Real World Examples shows both new and experienced users methods to utilize the platform in ways that they may not have previously considered. This includes topics such as website and learning management system integration, digital collections, data-drive decision-making, information literacy instruction, library administration, and a system-wide case study. Each chapter features ideas that you can implement immediately, or over time, as is appropriate to your own needs. Further, they are adaptable-tweak as you see fit! Divided into sections, this book examines different uses and approaches to LibGuides: * Website and learning management system (LMS) integration: examine how LibGuides can be used as, or closely integrated with, the library website and/or your institutions' LMS. Various examples are provided that you may be able to adapt at your own organization. Not every solution worked as anticipated-our authors address this, as well. * Digital collections: Two alternate approaches are presented. One looks at exhibitions and their application as outreach tools. The other looks at creating a digital museum within LibGuides. These are "can't miss" chapters for those that wish to more deeply explore digital collections and LibGuides viability. * Data-drive decision-making: Learn how some institutions are mining and utilizing data collected within LibApps/LibGuides. In both cases, the data examined helped institutions to improve library services while articulating a clear purpose (and use) for each data point. * Information literacy: Explore two different methods for revamping your instruction program through utilization of the platform. * Library administration: Discover how internal and external processes may be augmented through the use of LibApps/LibGuides. * System-wide case study: See how a community college system in North Carolina has each implemented (or not) LibApps/LibGuides on their respective campuses. This section shows how different institutions may decide to use the platform in different ways-all while attempting to improve their own services. Upon completion of this authoritative LITA Guide, readers will come away with the knowledge and tools to maximize their LibGuides experience

Building Trustworthy Digital Repositories: Theory and Implementation combines information on both theory and practice related to creating trustworthy repositories for records into one up-to-date source. This book will bring all the credible theories into one place where they will be summarized, brought up to date, and footnoted. Moreover, the book will be international in its scope, and will discuss ideas coming from such important sources as Australia, Canada, and Western Europe. Until about five years ago, there were very few implementation projects in this area. This book brings together information on implementation projects that answer these questions: *What is a trustworthy repository for digital records? *Who is building these repositories, and what have been the results? *How are institutions building or creating these repositories? *How are institutions addressing the essential requirement related to the ingest or capture of records? *How are institutions automatically and manually capturing essential metadata and audit trails? *How are institutions implementing retention and disposal decisions within these systems? *How are institutions implementing preservation strategies to ensure that digital objects are accessible over long periods of time? *What is the current status of trustworthy repositories, and what will these systems look like in the future?

In a world of users that routinely click "I Agree" buttons, librarians may be the lone voice raising an alert to the privacy, use, and ownership issues arising in connection with the design and implementation of digital rights management (DRM) technologies. DRM reflects the efforts of copyright owners to prevent the illegal distribution of copyrighted material - an admirable goal on its face. A common misunderstanding is that DRM is copyright law. It is not. Rather it is a method of preventing copyright infringement; however, if unchecked, DRM has the potential to violate privacy, limit ownership rights, and undermine the delicate balance of rights and policies established by our current system of copyright. All three of these arenas are critical for both librarians and their users. Reflecting the shift from ownership to access, libraries are increasingly providing access to rights-protected digital content. Libraries strive to provide access to rights-protected content in a manner that protects both the content creator and the privacy of the user. DRM encompasses a variety of technologies and strategies utilized by content owners and managers to limit access to and the use of rights-protected content. Librarians need to understand DRM to effectively enable users to access and use rights-protected digital content while at the same time protecting the privacy of the user. Designed to address the practical operational and planning issues related to DRM, this guide explores the critical issues and challenges faced by librarians. After reading it, librarians will better understand: *the digital content rights protection scheme; *the various DRM technologies and how they are used; *how to use authentication and authorization standards, strategies, and technologies; and, *the privacy and security issues related to DRM. Edited by two librarians who also hold law degrees, this is a best practices guide for front-line librarians on how to best respond to the impact of DRM schemes on collection development, staffing, budget, service, and other library concerns.

The ever expanding usage of mobile technologies has dramatically changed how we access information and how we as a society expect to access information. With mobile technologies becoming available to an increasing majority of the population, users are constantly connected to information. The rapid expansion of mobile technology has had a profound impact on many different sectors, industries, and institutions, among those that have been affected are libraries. With more users expecting access to information and resources in a mobile optimized format, libraries have had to adapt to meet the needs of users. This has entailed evaluating various library services and resources to determine how to best meet the needs of mobile users. Additionally, mobile technology has changed the way that websites are designed, and has led to an increasing popular type of web design know as responsive web design (RWD). This enables web developers to design websites with one code base that are optimized for a wide range of devices from desktop computers to smartphones. Libraries must keep their mobile services current or risk becoming obsolete. Based on research, examples, and experience using mobile technology, this book will include topics such as: *The impact of mobile technology *Mobile technology and the Digital Divide *Implications for library staff and vendors *Responsive Web Design *Wearable technology in library services Mobile Technologies in Libraries: A LITA Guide is written for library staff interested in how mobile technologies have changed the way we access, and expect to access, information, as well as how libraries can incorporate and adapt to mobile technology.

In a world of users that routinely click "I Agree" buttons, librarians may be the lone voice raising an alert to the privacy, use, and ownership issues arising in connection with the design and implementation of digital rights management (DRM) technologies. DRM reflects the efforts of copyright owners to prevent the illegal distribution of copyrighted material - an admirable goal on its face. A common misunderstanding is that DRM is copyright law. It is not. Rather it is a method of preventing copyright infringement; however, if unchecked, DRM has the potential to violate privacy, limit ownership rights, and undermine the delicate balance of rights and policies established by our current system of copyright. All three of these arenas are critical for both librarians and their users. Reflecting the shift from ownership to access, libraries are increasingly providing access to rights-protected digital content. Libraries strive to provide access to rights-protected content in a manner that protects both the content creator and the privacy of the user. DRM encompasses a variety of technologies and strategies utilized by content owners and managers to limit access to and the use of rights-protected content. Librarians need to understand DRM to effectively enable users to access and use rights-protected digital content while at the same time protecting the privacy of the user. Designed to address the practical operational and planning issues related to DRM, this guide explores the critical issues and challenges faced by librarians. After reading it, librarians will better understand: *the digital content rights protection scheme; *the various DRM technologies and how they are used; *how to use authentication and authorization standards, strategies, and technologies; and, *the privacy and security issues related to DRM. Edited by two librarians who also hold law degrees, this is a best practices guide for front-line librarians on how to best respond to the impact of DRM schemes on collection development, staffing, budget, service, and other library concerns.

The ever expanding usage of mobile technologies has dramatically changed how we access information and how we as a society expect to access information. With mobile technologies becoming available to an increasing majority of the population, users are constantly connected to information. The rapid expansion of mobile technology has had a profound impact on many different sectors, industries, and institutions, among those that have been affected are libraries. With more users expecting access to information and resources in a mobile optimized format, libraries have had to adapt to meet the needs of users. This has entailed evaluating various library services and resources to determine how to best meet the needs of mobile users. Additionally, mobile technology has changed the way that websites are designed, and has led to an increasing popular type of web design know as responsive web design (RWD). This enables web developers to design websites with one code base that are optimized for a wide range of devices from desktop computers to smartphones. Libraries must keep their mobile services current or risk becoming obsolete. Based on research, examples, and experience using mobile technology, this book will include topics such as: *The impact of mobile technology *Mobile technology and the Digital Divide *Implications for library staff and vendors *Responsive Web Design *Wearable technology in library services Mobile Technologies in Libraries: A LITA Guide is written for library staff interested in how mobile technologies have changed the way we access, and expect to access, information, as well as how libraries can incorporate and adapt to mobile technology.

How do expert searchers fit into the Google age? Is there still a role for them? How can you be the best searcher you can be? What tools can you use to develop your skills and build better searches? These questions and more are covered by Jankowski. After making a case for the value librarians can bring to the searching process, whether using Google or other databases, Jankowski takes you through the entire search cycle and offers a glimpse into the future of searching. How do you negotiate a search so that all parties are satisfied? How do you decide which resources to use and use them to their best advantage? What are the steps to building a good search strategy and how do you adapt and modify it? When the results are in how do you manage the results and document the process? Filled with tips and tricks gathered from over 40 years of experience Jankowski provides the answers in this conversational, yet practical guide. In addition to providing checklists and examples throughout the book, an entire chapter describes search tools and resources to grow your own expertise. Opportunities to apply the knowledge gained are offered in most chapters. This compact useful book can be used as a reference text, for self-study or as a course text.

The Librarian's Introduction to Programming Languages presents case studies and practical applications for using the top programming languages in library and information settings. While there are books and Web sites devoted to teaching programming, there are few works that address multiple programming languages or address the specific reasons why programming is a critical area of learning for library and information science professionals. There are many books on programming languages but no recent items directly written for librarians that span a variety of programs. Many practicing librarians see programming as something for IT people or beyond their capabilities. This book will help these librarians to feel comfortable discussing programming with others by providing an understanding of when the language might be useful, what is needed to make it work, and relevant tools to extend its application. Additionally, the inclusion of practical examples lets readers try a small "app" for the language. This also will assist readers who want to learn a language but are unsure of which language would be the best fit for them in terms of learning curve and application. The languages covered are JavaScript, PERL, PHP, SQL, Python, Ruby, C, C#, and Java. This book is designed to provide a basic working knowledge of each language presented. Case studies show the programming language used in real ways, and resources for exploring each language in more detail are also included.

Planning and implementing a 3D printing service in a library may seem like a daunting task. Based upon the authors' experience as early adopters of 3D technology and running a successful 3D printing service at a large academic library, this guide provides the steps to follow when launching a service in any type of library. Detailed guidance and over 50 graphics provide readers with sage guidance and detailed instructions on: *planning a proposal *printer selection tips *preparing the location *addressing staff concerns for new service *developing service workflows and procedures *managing inevitable disasters *developing policies *conducting the "reference interview" for 3D printing *staff training tips *outreach activities This book brings into one place all the guidance you need for developing and implementing a 3D printing service in any library.

In the last decade library collections have rapidly evolved from a predominance of print books and journals to an ever growing mix of digital and print resources. Library patrons are predominately served by support staff that is expected to know how to help patrons select and use digital resources. Yet most library support staff (LSS) has not had training to become proficient in finding, using, and instructing others in the abundance of the digital resources of websites, databases, e-texts, digital libraries and their related technologies. Library Technology and Digital Resources: An Introduction for Support Staff is both a text for professors who teach in library support staff programs and an introductory reference manual for support staff who work in libraries. This book will guide the LSS to be able to: *Distinguish key features and enhancements found among vendors and providers of digital libraries, digital collections, databases, and e-texts; *Plan, budget, fund and write grants for digital resources; *Understand the complexity and options of licensing and usage agreements for digital resources; *Know copyright permissions and acceptable use guidelines for digital resources. *Understand the basic technologies that support library digital resources including network structures, software applications, and protocols; *Distinguish between directories and search engines as they relate to digital resources as well as be able to employ advance search skills effectively; *Explore the resources of global, national, and state digital libraries and their collections; *Use government databases and other digitized systems and information sources; *Find exemplary digital resources though other agencies such as museums, university collections and other sources that librarians can share with patrons. *Create local digital resources of primary and historical materials and artifacts with metadata and cataloging for searchable access. *Interpret meaning from library digital resources using visual literacy skills. *Promote library digital resources through a variety of means including social media and online options.

We live in an information-saturated environment and spend far too much time searching, surfing, skimming, contributing, and organizing the information in our lives. We spend too little time immersing ourselves in reliable high quality information. We are often so buried in information and strapped for time that we grab information like it was fast food, without bothering to evaluate its quality. Finding Reliable Information Online: Adventures of an Information Sleuth uses stories or "information adventures" to illustrate the best approaches to searching for information and to help us develop our aptitude for locating high quality resources in a rapidly changing digital environment that is becoming proficient at monopolizing our attention with useless or unreliable information. This book is about taking charge of the search process and not handing over the reins to search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo to dictate what information we consume. Each chapter focuses on a quest for different types of information while digging deeper into the complexities of finding credible places to look for information and ways to think about evaluating it. As the Internet evolves and becomes more sophisticated, our strategies for finding and evaluating information need to evolve as well. The stories in this book range from investigating challenging research questions to exploring health issues and everyday life questions like finding a reliable restaurant or product review. These chapters go beyond the simple and more mechanical checklist approach to evaluating information, though these factors are also discussed.

Today's library patrons are browsing the Web on a variety of devices including tablets, e-readers, mobile phones, and desktops. Responsive web design employs techniques that will enable your library's website to automatically adapt to whatever screen size it's being viewed on. Learn how to utilize CSS techniques such as fluid grids and flexible images combined with responsive design techniques such as media queries to deliver an optimal experience for your library patrons regardless of device. Design one website to fit them all. With both beginner and expert developers in mind, this complete handbook guides the reader through the process of developing and launching their own Responsive Web Designs and introduces the craft of building multi-screen experiences. Online demos and downloadable code files are included for all projects: *Adapting your Existing Layout into a Responsive Layout - A RWD Retrofit *Building a Responsive Layout from Scratch - A RWD Bookreader *Creating a Responsive Contact Form - "Get a Library Card" *Creating a Responsive Search Interface *Creating a Responsive Single Page Application - "Mobile Feed App" *Using an RWD Framework for a complete site: Twitter Bootstrap

Today's library patrons are browsing the Web on a variety of devices including tablets, e-readers, mobile phones, and desktops. Responsive web design employs techniques that will enable your library's website to automatically adapt to whatever screen size it's being viewed on. Learn how to utilize CSS techniques such as fluid grids and flexible images combined with responsive design techniques such as media queries to deliver an optimal experience for your library patrons regardless of device. Design one website to fit them all. With both beginner and expert developers in mind, this complete handbook guides the reader through the process of developing and launching their own Responsive Web Designs and introduces the craft of building multi-screen experiences. Online demos and downloadable code files are included for all projects: *Adapting your Existing Layout into a Responsive Layout - A RWD Retrofit *Building a Responsive Layout from Scratch - A RWD Bookreader *Creating a Responsive Contact Form - "Get a Library Card" *Creating a Responsive Search Interface *Creating a Responsive Single Page Application - "Mobile Feed App" *Using an RWD Framework for a complete site: Twitter Bootstrap

Over 52 million tablet devices were sold during the fourth quarter of 2012 and sales are predicted to continue to increase in years to come. These lightweight mobile computing devices are quickly becoming an integral part of patrons' everyday lives. Libraries are responding by incorporating them into their programs and services. Using Tablets and App in Libraries outlines how libraries can support this new BYOD (bring your own device) culture including offering app events and instruction, installing mounted tablets within the library, offering tablet lending programs, initiating tablet training programs for staff, and ways to evaluate and use quality apps. Discover how you can implement a successful tablet program in your library. Through this comprehensive guide, readers will learn: * How to integrate the potential of tablet technology into existing library programs and staff workflows *How to Host a Staff Training Technology Petting Zoo *How to provide tablet support and training for your patrons *How to use tablets in your story time and other children's programming *How to circulate tablets in your library *How to use tablets to promote library services *How to use tablets in your physical spaces to provide and gather information

Over 52 million tablet devices were sold during the fourth quarter of 2012 and sales are predicted to continue to increase in years to come. These lightweight mobile computing devices are quickly becoming an integral part of patrons' everyday lives. Libraries are responding by incorporating them into their programs and services. Using Tablets and App in Libraries outlines how libraries can support this new BYOD (bring your own device) culture including offering app events and instruction, installing mounted tablets within the library, offering tablet lending programs, initiating tablet training programs for staff, and ways to evaluate and use quality apps. Discover how you can implement a successful tablet program in your library. Through this comprehensive guide, readers will learn: * How to integrate the potential of tablet technology into existing library programs and staff workflows *How to Host a Staff Training Technology Petting Zoo *How to provide tablet support and training for your patrons *How to use tablets in your story time and other children's programming *How to circulate tablets in your library *How to use tablets to promote library services *How to use tablets in your physical spaces to provide and gather information

Google Earth is a research, mapping, and cultural exploration tool that puts the whole world in your hands, then hands over the tools to let you build your own world. The uses of Google Earth in academia, in libraries, and across disciplines are endless and each year more innovate research projects are being released. Since its launch, Google Earth has had an enormous impact on the way people think, learn, and work with geographic information. With easy access to spatial and cultural information, and with customizable map features and dynamic presentation tools, Google Earth is an attractive option for anyone wishing to host projects and to share research findings through a common online interface. This easy-to-read, practical guide: *Demonstrates how Google Earth has been used as a resource for research *Showcases library path finders, discovery tools, and collections built with Google Earth *Discusses how Google Earth can be embedded into various library services *Highlights effectives uses of Google Earth in specific-discipline education, and provide step-by-step sample classroom activities *Introduces Google Earth features, data, and map making capabilities *Describes Google Earth-related online resources After reading this guide, librarians will be able to easily integrate Google Earth's many facets into their services and help teachers integrate it into their classrooms. Because so many librarians are educators and subject specialists, they can customize the learning outcomes for students based on the subject being studied. This book presents a cross-disciplinary overview of how Google Earth can be used in research, in teaching and learning, and in other library services like promotion, outreach, reference and very importantly collection and resource exploration and discovery. This comprehensive guide to using Google Earth is for public, school, academic, and special libraries serving from the elementary level through adult levels. Although articles have been written about specific subjects and specific library projects, this is the first published that offer a one-stop-shop for utilizing this online product for library-related purposes. Librarians reading this book will gain the Google Earth skills required to be able to not only use it themselves, but also teach others in how to use this online technology.