Games of all kinds, from breakouts and escape rooms to traditional board game collections, are often featured in academic library instruction, programming, and outreach initiatives, where their natural ability to foster interaction and communication is especially valuable. Games and gamification can be used to help students engage with the thresholds of the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education; locate resources and identify misinformation and disinformation; and build connections with faculty and librarians, in one-shots and for-credit courses. In four sections-An Overview of Games and Gamification, Adding and Maintaining a Circulating Game Collection to your Library, Games and Gamification in Information Literacy Instruction, and Programming and Outreach through Games-Games and Gamification in Academic Libraries explores incorporating games into first-year experience programs, using games to help students engage with special collections, making games accessible, and ideas for game nights and events. The book is packed with full-color figures, photos, and samples for inspiration and easy repurposing. Games and gamification function best not as something separate, but as one tool in an academic library's approach to their goals and initiatives. Games and Gamification in Academic Libraries offers encouragement, strategies, and proven practices for developing and using accessible, welcoming gamification as a flexible tool to meet their institutions' missions and their students' learning needs.

Using Twitter to Build Communities looks at ways for libraries, archives, and museums to go far beyond Twitter as a "broadcasting" tool, and highlights innovative methods to use the service to spark communication and create ties within your institution's greater community. Appropriate for the social media beginner as well as the experienced user, it covers topics like: *Creating a Social Media Strategy/Policy *Choosing the Right Software *Gaining Followers *How to curate content *How and when to automate your feed *How and when to embed your feed *How to use cross-platform strategies *Using Analytics This book condenses years of research and expertise on using Twitter in an institutional setting into one handy reference for launching or reviving your organization's Twitter presence into an impactful medium in your community.

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.

For this new fourth edition, expert instructor and librarian Peggy Johnson has revised and fully updated this textbook to provide a timely and valuable new resource for LIS students and professionals. Each chapter offers complete introductory coverage of one aspect of collection development and management, before including numerous suggestions for further reading and study. A range of practical case studies are included to illustrate and explore all of the issues discussed. Content covered includes: - traditional management topics including organization of the collection, demonstrating value, staffing, and policymaking - cooperative collection development and management - licenses, negotiation, contracts, maintaining productive relationships with vendors and publishers, and other important purchasing and budgeting topics - changes in information delivery and access technologies and how they continue to reshape the discipline - the evolving needs and expectations of library users - new roles for subject specialists - marketing, liaison activities, and outreach. This book will be useful as a comprehensive introduction and learning tool for LIS students, a timely update for experienced librarians with new collection development and management responsibilities, and a handy reference resource for practitioners as they go about their day-to-day work.

The Makerspace Librarian's Sourcebook, edited by technology expert Ellyssa Kroski, is an essential all in one guidebook to makerspaces written specifically for libraries. This practical volume provides an invaluable resources for librarians seeking to learn about the major topics, tools, and technologies relevant to makerspaces today. Containing cutting-edge guidance from a range of international experts, this collection is packed with practical tips and case studies for the field's most tech-savvy innovators. This book: * Shows readers how to start their own makerspace from the ground up, covering strategic planning, funding sources, starter equipment lists, space design, and safety guidelines * discusses the transformative teaching and learning opportunities that makerspaces offer, with tips on how to empower and encourage a diverse maker culture within the library * delves into 11 of the essential technologies and tools most commonly found in makerspaces, ranging from 3D printers, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and wearable electronics to CNC, Legos, drones, and circuitry kits * includes an assortment of practical, ready to implement, project ideas. This hands-on sourcebook will be useful reading for librarians using technology in teaching and learning in their libraries, as well as those considering whether to set up a makerspace, or with one already up and running.

This hands-on guide provides both new and seasoned information professionals with a practical foundation for electronic resources management: how it came to be, where it is today and the essential tools needed to get the job done. Electronic resources management is a dynamic and ever-changing area of librarianship. Fundamentals of Electronic Resources Management cuts through the complexity of the role and offers advice on methods, tools and workflows with emphasis on the interconnection between workflows and systems. Content covered includes: - the full range of purchasing options, from unbundling package subscriptions to pay per view - evaluating both new content and current resources - common clauses in licensing agreements and what they mean - selecting and managing Open Access resources - understanding methods of e-resources access authentication - using a triage approach to troubleshoot electronic resources access issues - the basic principles of usage statistics, and ways to use COUNTER reports when evaluating renewals - tips for activating targets in a knowledge base - marketing tools and techniques - clear explanations of jargon, important terms, and acronyms. This guide will prove invaluable, both as an introduction for those preparing to enter the field, as well as a ready reference for current practitioners.

Imagine a records management (RM) future where the user community collectively describes the value and properties of a record using the wisdom of the crowd; where records retention, description and purpose are determined by their users, within general boundaries defined by the records manager. It may sound far-fetched, but could represent a way forward for managing records. It has never been more apparent that RM as traditionally practised will soon no longer be fit for purpose. With the increasing plurality of information sources and systems within an organization, as the deluge of content increases, so the percentage of the organization's holdings that can be formally classed as records declines. In the Web 2.0 world new technology is continually changing the way users create and use information. RM must change its approach fundamentally if it is to have a role to play in this new world. This provocative new book challenges records managers to find time amidst the daily operational pressures to debate the larger issues thrown up by the new technological paradigm we are now entering, and the threat it poses to established theory and practice. A range of stimulating ideas are put up for discussion: why not, for instance, embrace folksonomies rather than classification schemes and metadata schemas as the main means of resource discovery for unstructured data? Adopt a ranking system that encourages users to rate how useful they found content as part of the appraisal process? Let the content creator decide whether there should be any access restrictions on the content they have created? Readership: This is a thought-provoking book which questions received wisdom and suggests radical new solutions to the very real issues RM faces. Every records manager needs to read this challenging book, and those that do may never think about their profession in quite the same way again.

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.

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.

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

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.

In its new fifth edition, which has been completely updated and reorganized, this one-stop overview of all technologies used in libraries today is more comprehensive and compelling than ever. The perfect primer for LIS students, Burke's guide should also be at the top of the list for any current or future library professional looking to stay at the forefront of technological advancement. It gives readers a sound and sensible way to consider, access, and use library technologies to better meet the needs of library users. Its incisive coverage includes: complete analysis of the librarian's technological toolbox for teaching, security, databases, and more; expert advice on how to compare and evaluate competing technology solutions; mobile devices and technology, social media, streaming media, and privacy; makerspaces and other technology programing; updated content on open source catalog systems, discovery layers, and related elements of library management systems; a new section on learning management systems (LMS); websites, web-based services, and free information resources; improved guidance on usability; new technology predictions for the future, with tips on how to stay up to date with the latest developments; and a glossary of useful terms. Informed by a large-scale survey of librarians across the spectrum of institution types, this guide will be a true technology companion to novices and seasoned LIS professionals alike.

A comprehensive guide for all sizes of libraries, this book guides you through the entire process of effectively redesigning your library's website-from evaluating your current site and understanding user needs, to creating a budget, through to launching and maintaining your updated site. For today's increasingly web-savvy patrons, your library's website is a critical aspect of your services and user experience. If it's time for a website makeover for your library, this book will take you through the process step-by-step, sharing lessons learned and pointing out pitfalls to avoid. The end result? You'll delight your patrons with easy-to-find information, wow your director with an easy-to-use content management system (CMS), and impress your board with a website that clearly communicates your library's value. Written by two veterans of the process who have presented workshops on this topic, this book covers the entire process of library website redesign: from evaluating your current website, to making the decision of whether to hire a web developer or do it in-house, to usability testing. It also addresses budgeting, making content and design decisions, the launching process, marketing, and upkeep of your new site. Presents an approachable, complete guide that covers all steps in the process of revamping a library website, turning a potentially daunting challenge into a doable project, even for those without technical backgrounds Describes various ways of handling specific steps for different sizes and types of libraries-from a "DIY" approach to cost-effective ways of hiring outside professionals Provides an invaluable resource for librarians and library staff members charged with the task of designing or redesigning their library's website as well as for web developers and designers who work with libraries

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.

Provides readers with a view of the changing and emerging roles of electronic books in higher education. The three main sections contain contributions by experts in the publisher/vendor arena, as well as by librarians who report on both the challenges of offering and managing e-books and on the issues surrounding patron use of e-books. The case study section offers perspectives from seven different sizes and types of libraries whose librarians describe innovative and thought-provoking projects involving e-books. Read about perspectives on e-books from organizations as diverse as a commercial publisher and an association press. Learn about the viewpoint of a jobber. Find out about the e-book challenges facing librarians, such as the quest to control costs in the patron-driven acquisitions (PDA) model, how to solve the dilemma of resource sharing with e-books, and how to manage PDA in the consortial environment. See what patron use of e-books reveals about reading habits and disciplinary differences. Finally, in the case study section, discover how to promote scholarly e-books, how to manage an e-reader checkout program, and how one library replaced most of its print collection with e-books. These and other examples illustrate how innovative librarians use e-books to enhance users' experiences with scholarly works.

With the world becoming increasingly more dependent upon the Internet, libraries offer an essential service by providing access to this worldwide network. To help their patrons, modern librarians must have a thorough understanding of this technology. Integrating the Web into Everyday Library Services: A Practical Guide for Librarians is a comprehensive guide to a variety of aspects of Internet use and research. The book is basic, assuming only a basic understanding of computer use and Internet research. This guide begins with: *a basic explanation of the mechanics of the Internet and World Wide Web, then moves on to *explore the variety of ways that a user can discover online information, *how information is stored online via the cloud, and *how a librarian can enhance his or her library's online presence. Later chapters explain: *how to use the Internet to communicate, *how to help patrons research and evaluate information, and *how to protect patrons and yourself from online dangers. The final chapter is devoted to helping librarians solve basic computer problems that their patrons may encounter, including troubleshooting Internet connections.

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

MOOCs or massive open online courses that can be attended by hundreds of thousands of students at the same time have become wildly popular in recent years, and have begun to gain traction with libraries as well. There are many potential roles for libraries in MOOCs including: development, support, assessment, modeling, teaching, and preservation. In MOOCs and Libraries, learn how you can utilize MOOCs for staff training, bibliographic instruction, supporting faculty curriculum, and more! Readers of this start-to-finish guide to MOOC's in libraries will learn all about MOOC creation, from early stage planning, pedagogy, and equipment selection, to filming and launch, including: *How to Choose Hardware and Software for Your MOOC *Planning your first MOOC project *Planning for a Library MOOC Video Project *How to Develop MOOC Scripts *Storyboarding *Choosing a MOOC Filming Location *How to create MOOCs for bibliographic instruction *How to create MOOCs for staff training *How to create video lectures and screencasts

WordPress is not only the most popular blogging software in the world, but it is also a powerful content management system that runs more than 23 percent of all websites. The current version alone has been downloaded almost 20 million times, and the WordPress community has built more than 38,000 plugins to extend and enhance the system. Libraries are using this technology to create community-oriented websites, blogs, subject guides, digital archives, and more. This hands-on, practical book walks readers through the entire process of setting up a WordPress website for their library, provides tips and best practices for using themes and library-oriented plug-ins, and contains information on how to use WordPress to create nontraditional library websites. No matter your library's size or resources, this all-in-one practical manual will show you how to improve your website by building it in WordPress through projects such as: *How to Install and Use Common Plugins *How to Install and Customize a Theme *How to Build an Exhibit to Display an Image Collection *How to Analyze and Manage Your Content in WordPress *How to Create Re-Usable Chunks of Text With Shortcodes *How to Build a Professional Library Website