As librarians move into the middle of their careers, they are more ready than ever to take on new leadership opportunities. Literature on leadership is expanding in the field of library and information sciences, and more and more seminars and workshops are being offered for new and seasoned leaders. This book asks the questions: What about us? and, Where is the leadership advice and training for those who are no longer new librarians, but are also not yet seasoned leaders? The title illustrates how to work the middle, from being in the sophomore slump progressing to the next leaders in the field, to look for perspectives from others who are in the middle of their career, and how they have developed into leaders, ways to develop one s own style of leadership and grow one s career and future as a librarian and information professional.
Perspectives on leadership from mid-career information professionalsTips and tools on how to become a leader from the middle of your careerA how-to guide on making changes from the middle"

Many modern technologies give the impression that they somehow work by magic, particularly when they operate automatically and their mechanisms are invisible. A technology called RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), which is relatively new, has exactly this characteristic. Librarians everywhere are closely watching RFID technology. Advances over using bar codes on library materials, RFID tags are being touted as a way to radically redesign how library materials are handled. But it is expensive. The tags are vulnerable to wear and tear and the technology is not fully developed. It's unclear what sort of return on investment (ROI) it provides. While it is common for libraries to now have information technology expertise within their organizations, RFID may appear unfamiliar. RFID for Libraries: A practical guide examines what RFID technology is and how it works. The book reviews the development of computer technology and its effects on library operations over the last couple of decades. Further examination features the applications of RFID technology in libraries. An assessment of current implementations in libraries and the lessons learnt provides suggestions to overcome the issues faced. Concluding chapters look into the future to see what developments might be possible with RFID in libraries. Benefiting from the rich experience the author has gained during recent implementation of RFID based system for his library and the important title aids the library and information community in understanding RFID technology from a library perspective.
Written by a librarian who has recently implemented the RFID system for his libraryComprehensive review of available RFID systems for librariesStep by step guidelines for successful implementation of RFID systems in the library

Libraries/information centres are continuously evolving to keep up with rapid changes in information gathering, processing, and distribution. Corporate and non-profit special libraries face special challenges in revitalizing their physical space and providing efficient access to digital content. This book provides solo-librarians or special library managers with practical advice as to revitalize their libraries both in the physical space and the digital space. The book uses case studies, surveys and literature review to provide practical, innovative and evidence-based information to help special librarians develop information centres that will remain relevant to their organizations.
Written from an evidence-based perspectiveEach section includes case studies, interviews or examples from libraries and librariansWritten specifically for special librarians

This book examines the theory, behaviour, connections and issues of modern information organizations. Asking leading professionals where we may be in the near future, it challenges both our perceptions and preconceptions. Posing perhaps the most vital question of all... Are we prepared? Do we have a vision?

In a world where computing power, ubiquity and connectivity create powerful new ways to facilitate learning, this book examines how librarians and information professionals can utilize emerging technologies to expand service and resource delivery. With contributions from leading professionals, including lecturers, librarians and e-learning technologists, this bookl explores strategic approaches for effectively implementing, living with, and managing revolutionary technological change in libraries.
Explores the impact of the social and technological aspects of Web 2.0 on libraries and library servicesDraws on empirical researchExperienced practitioners

This book explores recent trends in human resource management practices and presents options for their application within the special context of libraries, especially academic and research libraries. It lays out a set of the most pressing HR management issues facing senior library leaders in the context of continuous organisational change in the 21st century and offers library practitioners effective tips for people management.
A practical how-to book that provides realistic and proven solutions to real-world challengesProvides examples from organizations to highlight concepts and their applicationsSummary of key points at the end of each chapter, as well as specific tips in three areas: A - Attention (things to pay attention to); R - Results (initiatives that help to achieve desired results) and T - Techniques (ways to apply the concepts presented."

Aimed at library science students and librarians with newly assigned administrative duties the book is about improving one s thinking and decision making in a role as a library manager. Most librarians get very little exposure to management issues prior to finding themselves in a management role. Furthermore, most library science students do not expect that they will need to understand management yet they quickly find that there is a need to understand this perspective to be effective at almost any library job. Effective library management is about having some tools to make decisions (such as a basic understanding of management theory and how it applies in the library environment, understanding common traps we all fall into, etc.), knowing yourself, being able to motivate others, fostering a diversity (especially within workgroups), being able to communicate effectively, and having an understanding of one s organizational culture. The book touches on all of these aspects of library management.
Provides a concise understanding of theories from management, psychology, etc. and applies them to practical every day library issuesContains real world cases for considering how theoretical concepts might apply in real library-related situationsCuts out much of the extraneous material often found in books of this kind and focuses more on what you actually need"

User-Generated Content and its Impact on Web-Based Library Services examines the impact of user-generated content on web-based library services. It begins with an overview of Web 2.0 tools and technologies and a brief look at the emerging semantic tools of Web 3.0 and their implications for libraries. The book investigates the changing role of the end user as both a creator and consumer of web content and what this means for society s perception and understanding of information. The author addresses the advantages and challenges of using these tools to bring community expertise and opinion into the library, from reinvention of the library website as a community rather than a collection to the issues of moderating user-generated content. The book also explores the notion of low-fidelity authority, understanding that by acknowledging the value in content that does not necessarily meet traditional definition of authority, it creates the potential to achieve a much greater level of relevance and engagement with users. Throughout the book, conceptual discussion is illustrated with real-world examples and practical suggestions for library practitioners.
Relatively new and extremely relevant topic, with which many libraries and librarians are currently grapplingProvides conceptual discussion and practical examples of sound strategies for managing user-generated contentThe book is about rethinking what we do as librarians, and surrendering some of our traditional notions of authority and control to the expertise that exists in the community "

Targeted at Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals, this book concentrates on usability evaluation methods used to design usable and user-centered library websites. Aimed at the practitioner, it is a practical guide to methods that are used to gather information from potential users that shape the design of the website based on an interactive design process. From planning the study to writing the report, this book guides the reader through the process of usability evaluation using examples from the author s experience with usability evaluation of library interfaces. It describes usability techniques, procedures, report writing, and design changes that lead to a user-centered interface.
A concise, practical guide to completing usability evaluation methods with an emphasis on creating user-centered library websitesIncludes examples that draw on the author s practical experience with usability evaluationUseful guidelines to creating participant recruitment letters, scripts, thank you notes, and forms illustrated with practical examples"

A practical guide to current Institutional Repository (IR) issues, focussing on content - both gaining and preserving it and what cultural issues need to be addressed to make a successful IR. Importantly, the book uses real-life experiences to address and highlight issues raised in the book.
Written by a successful Institutional Repository project managerThe author has detailed knowledge of Institutional Repository issuesDraws on practical knowledge and experience gained from organisational use

This book provides an overview of approaches to assist researchers and practitioners to explore ways of undertaking research in the information literacy field. The first chapter provides an introductory overview of research by Dr Kirsty Williamson (author of Research Methods for Students, Academics and Professionals: Information Management and Systems) and this sets the scene for the rest of the chapters where each author explores the key aspects of a specific method and explains how it may be applied in practice. The methods covered include those representing qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods. Both a chapter on the topical evidence-based practice approach, and another critiquing it, are also included. The final chapter points the way towards potential new directions for the burgeoning field.
Renowned information literacy researcher Dr Christine Bruce affirms the usefulness of the book: New researchers and early career professionals will appreciate the clarity of the introductions provided' to each of the methods covered.

This book focuses on practical, standards-based approaches to planning, executing and managing projects in which libraries and other cultural institutions digitize material and make it available on the web (or make collections of born-digital material available). Topics include evaluating material for digitization, intellectual property issues, metadata standards, digital library content management systems, search and retrieval considerations, project management, project operations, proposal writing, and libraries emerging role as publishers.
Highly practical. Explains complex processes, warns of potential challenges and provides advice for solving realistic problemsComprehensive: includes coverage of the range of techniques and strategies for digitizing and organizing material that practitioners can use to plan and implement digitization projects "

Providing a thorough review of the concept of the Institutional Repository (IR) the book examines how they can be set up, maintained and embedded into general institutional working practice. Specific reference is made to capturing certain types of research material such as E-Theses and E-Prints and what the issues are with regard to obtaining the material, ensuring that all legal grounds are covered and then storing the material in perpetuity. General workflow and administrative processes that may come up during the implementation and maintenance of an IR are discussed. The authors notes that there are a number of different models that have been adopted worldwide for IR management, and these are discussed. Finally, a case study of the inception of the Edinburgh Research Archive is provided which takes the user through the long path from conception to completion of an IR, examining the highs and lows of the process and offering advice for other implementers. This allows the book the opportunity to introduce extensive practical experience in unexpected areas such as mediated deposit.
A comprehensive synthesis of the whole of the IR system - never before provided in other booksThe research results that it contains, are at the leading edge of this subject areaIncludes a comprehensive case study and examination of practical experience - never before provided in other books

Tight budgets and limited staff need not stop you from taking positive action. This practical, no-nonsense guide will help you face the budget gap, learn why it exists, and plan an appropriate course of action within budgetary constraints. Chapters cover building-level mission statements and evaluation, library management and operations, resources (human, material, and computer), public relations, and fund-raising. A cost-effective investment for school libraries, small libraries, library schools, and library administrators.

The digital is the new milieu in which academic libraries must serve their patrons; but how best to utilize the slew of digital devices and their surrounding trends? Optimizing Academic Library Services in the Digital Milieu identifies best practices and strategies for using digital devices (such as tablets, e-readers, and smartphones) and copyrighted materials in academic libraries. Special consideration is given to e-books, iBooks, e-journals, and digital textbooks. This title describes how academic libraries can remain current, nimbly addressing user needs. An introduction gives an overview of technology in academic libraries, including the foundations of copyright law and user behavior in relation to digital content. Three parts then cover: digital rights management (DRM); practical approaches to e-content for librarians; and emerging pedagogy and technology. Finally, the book concludes by telling libraries how to remain agile and adaptable as they navigate the digital milieu.
Presents a contemporary view on DRM and fair use for librarians in the context of contemporary technologyAddresses file standards in relation to devices in librariesDemonstrates ways that librarians can support and engage students using emerging digital technologiesIdentifies low- or no-cost solutions available to assist librarians to fully engage with users through technology in the digital milieu

Libraries as social and service-based institutions are constantly seeking innovative and effective ways to meet the needs of their users and maintain relevance amidst alternative information sources. They are constantly adjusting to meet the needs of users, contribute to the personal development of users, and alight with national development. All of these have placed a burden on libraries to engage in sustainable practices both to increase their capacity to drive current developmental endeavors and to sustain future relevance. Global Perspectives on Sustainable Library Practices provides a rich and robust knowledge resource that brings together diverse sustainable library practices that will revamp library operations towards optimally meeting the current objectives of libraries as a developmental institution as well as sustaining value for future operations and service transactions. Covering topics such as access efficacy, green space development, and library service delivery, this premier reference source is an essential resource for librarians, library administrators, educators and administration of both K-12 and higher education, students of library sciences, pre-service teachers, researchers, and academicians.

Perspectives and identity are typically reinforced at a young age, giving teachers the responsibility of selecting reading material that could potentially change how the child sees the world. This is the importance of sharing diverse literature with today's children and young adults, which introduces them to texts that deal with religion, gender identities, racial identities, socioeconomic conditions, etc. Teachers and librarians play significant roles in placing diverse books in the hands of young readers. However, to achieve the goal of increasing young people's access to diverse books, educators and librarians must receive quality instruction on this topic within their university preparation programs. The Handbook of Research on Teaching Diverse Youth Literature to Pre-Service Professionals is a comprehensive reference source that curates promising practices that teachers and librarians are currently applying to prepare aspiring teachers and librarians for sharing and teaching diverse youth literature. Given the importance of sharing diverse books with today's young people, university educators must be aware of engaging and effective methods for teaching diverse literature to pre-service teachers and librarians. Covering topics such as syllabus development, diversity, social justice, and activity planning, this text is essential for university-level teacher educators, library educators who prepare pre-service teachers and librarians, university educators, faculty, adjunct instructors, researchers, and students.

The Role of the Electronic Resources Librarian focuses on longstanding hurdles to the transition of libraries from print collections, to online information services, all from an Electronic Resources Librarian (ERL) perspective. Problems covered include cost containment for electronic serials, web design, discovery, customer service, efficiency, and adapting organizations to the needs of contemporary users. The title considers the historical development of the ERL role, how the position emerged in North America in the 1990s, how it is represented within the organizational structure of academic libraries, and how the ERL role maps to technology, information services, and professional identity trends.

Front-Line Librarianship: Life on the Job for Librarians presents a diverse range of observations, viewpoints and useful commentary on the current workplace experiences of librarians and their associates. The book's author presents an unrivalled portrait of front-line librarianship that is based upon his unique experience and voice. Chapters consider workplace matters, the fate of hardcopy books, speechmaking at conferences, the effects of recessions on libraries, continuing education, and corporate gift-giving programs. This book will make an excellent and useful addition to library collections in library science.

In the entire book efforts has been made to explain the practical application of modern ICTs for transfer of agriculture technologies. I have focused on systematic presentation of various ICT tools with their applications by different organizations. Deep understanding of modern ICT tools and techniques would enable extension workers, scientists, teachers, students and researchers to work efficiently for wellbeing of the farming community. The book will prove useful and informative for officials of government and non-government organizations working for transfer of agriculture technology; teachers and students of agriculture and allied sectors; Officials of Krishi Vigyan Kendras and agriculture universities; Scientist and researchers of agriculture extension and rural development. Overall the book is constructive for Teaching, Research and Extension in the agriculture and allied fields.

Service quality is an issue separate from internal observations of effectiveness and efficiency, and cannot adequately be conveyed by output and performance measures. Considerations of service quality require librarians to regard management and the provision of service from an entirely new perspective- from the viewpoint of the library user, for whom the outcome of a trip to the library has far greater relevance than the institutions' outputs. This book examines service quality, identifies its essential elements (including electronic service delivery), and discusses ways in which it can be assessed quantitatively and qualitatively. Based on a two-year research study, this book encourages every manager to consider the impact of accountability on the library's role within the larger organization. It identifies simple and practical methods by which to implement measures representing service quality and to narrow the gap between library services and customer expectations.

Mobile phones are revolutionised the communication process and becoming all-in-one magical device for anytime and anywhere communication. The last decade has seen a flourish in the number of mobile based agro-advisory service initiatives in the developing countries and more are added regularly in some part of the world. Services that started with farmers help-lines accessed through landlines and messages (SMS) have evolved slowly to multimodal and multimedia based delivery of advisory and to m-agriculture applications for smartphones. In this rapidly changing m-Agriculture scenario, this book is an attempt to document the evolution of mobile phone based agro-advisory services around the world. The content of the book comprises of country s on mobile phone applications for agricultural extension from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe along with s on global review on m-agriculture initiatives, content generation process and socio-economic impact of mobile phone based agro-advisory services. This book delves into the development of mobile phone based agro-advisory and their content, delivery mode, business model and utility and provides an insight into the evolution of mobile phones as an extension tool in different countries across the globe. The book will provide valuable insights on m-agriculture initiatives for agricultural extension around the world to agricultural students, extension professionals, researchers and policy makers across the globe both for understanding them and working on them. The lessons from the m-agriculture initiatives can guide the mode of implementation and evolution of mobile based advisory services in agriculture.

Library and Information Centres are continuing to provide information services in a changing environment. The advent of Information and communication Technologies has enabled libraries not only to improve the traditional library services but also to devise new methods of information services using latest technological tools. The information seeking behavior of the users has been changed and they demand latest information from any source through any method. Hence the application of latest ICT can be able to suffice the current information needs of the information stakeholders. Most of the information sources are being published in digital formats. The emergence of digital libraries has completely changed the information dissemination scenario. Users are now can be able to have access to any library for any information they seek. It is only the digital libraries which can develop such a system of information dissemination. But access to information is a problem. Such problems can be solved if digital libraries are developed in right platform. In order to discuss those emerging problems the Editors invited the contributors some useful papers. Hence, the book deals with some of the emerging topics on digital libraries which will be useful for the library and information professionals.