During the past 50 years, the study of "international librarianship" global, universal, or comparative has increasingly become an essential element in understanding the importance of information and knowledge in the global setting. Over this period of time, many attempts have been made to evaluate the similarities and differences in information structures, staffing, and services in various areas of the world with the ultimate intention of providing timely and accurate information to seekers in the greater international arena. International Librarianship: A Basic Guide to Global Knowledge Access identifies basic background sources, in whatever format, for the study and teaching of international librarianship. The most important ones relate to: . Establishing a professional association, so that issues relating to information access can be discussed and resolved at the national and international level . Identifying international philanthropic agencies, which can facilitate development of international information services . The Importance of national libraries and bibliographic services, which are responsible for some coordination and cooperation in sharing national information . Developing information policies on both the national and international front Renowned author and specialist on international librarianship, Robert D. Stueart, concludes the guide with a listing of sources for the discussion and development of information policies, including proposals put forth in the World Summit on the Information Society."

How can you successfully lead your library through the changes taking place in today's transitional information environment? What skills must you develop or hone in order to build a confident, comfortable, and capable staff in your institution? In their highly practical new ""How-To-Do-It Manual"", authors Robert D. Stuart, the former Dean Emeritus of Simmons College's Graduate School of Library and Information Science and Maureen Sullivan, a leadership expert with over thirty years experience delivering consulting and training services to libraries and other information services, will help you identify the essential concepts and goals behind great leadership, and effectively implement each one into your library's organizational structure. ""Developing Library Leaders"" covers key strategies and processes for coaching, team building, and mentoring library staff. Following a foreword from James G. Neal, the authors clearly define the major roles and responsibilities of a library leader and offer valuable techniques for persuading and influencing others, building and leading teams and groups, and managing projects. There is step-by-step guidance for developing crucial coaching and mentoring skills, as well as tips for succession planning and facilitating long-term development. Throughout the book, Stueart and Sullivan provide ample models, outlines, examples, and charts for further guidance and to reinforce the practical use of key strategies. The generations-old adage that 'leaders are born not bred' is a myth; it is now commonly accepted that leadership is a skill that can be developed. Stueart and Sullivan show current and future library directors and managers how to develop their institutions' most valuable asset - their staff - and better prepare them to lead.