White's previously published articles and speeches (most presented after 1989) identify and address critical issues that range from library education, funding, and leadership to technology, ethics, and burnout. Although often delivered with humor, White's probing and sometimes controversial commentaries on the opportunities and dangers to the profession are certain to provoke serious thought. Divided into three sections, the book covers "Librarians, Their Self-Image, and the Perceptions That Define Their Preparation"; "Librarians and Their Role, As Defined by Them and by Others"; and "Librarians in the Cruel World of Politics and Money." The author introduces each section with general comments. A must for the library professional shelf and a useful supplementary text for management and issues courses in library schools.

Librarians and libraries now face unprecedented challenges, risks, and opportunities. In his latest collection of articles and speeches, White focuses on the professional issues confronting librarians at a time of increased technological options-when simple information access can be easily and directly done by end users, but in which complex information access poses needs and concerns which the end user may not even recognize, let alone understand. Often delivered with wit, these insightful and sometimes controversial commentaries are intended to provoke serious thought, discussion, and ultimately, action. A must read for library and information science professionals and valuable supplementary reading for students of library and information science.