Burke, John J. Library Technology Companion: a basic guide for library staff (6th Edition). Chicago: ALA Neal-Schuman, 2020. 176 pp. ISBN: 978 0 8389 1866 1. £73.50.
De Abreu, Belinda S. Teaching Media Literacy (2nd Edition). Chicago: ALA Neal-Schuman, 2019. 192 pp. ISBN: 978 0 8389 1721 3. £57.95.
A comprehensive introduction to collection management
THE fourth edition of this book has been updated with new examples and data, and is intended as a comprehensive intro- duction for students and a handbook for librarians new to collection management and management responsibilities.
It begins with an introduc- tion to collection manage- ment as a specialist role; its importance and value in the 21st century which includes digital resources. Additional chapters look at organisa- tional models, planning and budgets, developing, assessing and managing collections, evaluation and preserva- tion, ethics. Also included is guidance on successful vendor relations, negotiation skills and contracts, collaboration, marketing and outreach. Each chapter contains case studies, activities to try and comprehensive references for further reading. There is also a glossary and index. The focus is on US libraries, limiting the use of parts of the data for librarians from other countries. A global perspective on the topic would have been a bonus.
There are no illustrations but the chapters are set out in a logical and easy-to-use format. The publication con- tains a great wealth of detail but remains easy to read and encourages the reader to actively think about the issues involved. The author makes
January-February 2020
A fascinating study of creating a unique workspace for students
A HEAD Librarian sets out the process of transforming their traditional library into a state-of-the-art facility. The publication includes check- lists covering planning, practicalities and opening. Headington School took this opportunity to refl ect on cur- rent library use, embrace smart technology, consider how study skills may change and how to prepare students for the future. The vision was to enhance the wider aims of the school, and the design was conceived after visiting fl ag-ship libraries, and involving the community.
Johnson, Peggy. Fundamentals of Collection Development and Man- agement (4th Edition). Chicago: ALA Editions, 2018. 418 pp. ISBN: 978 0 8389 1641 4. £60.29.
what could be quite daunt- ing tasks such as creating a Collections Development Policy seem straightforward; there is a positive feel about the text which is encouraging and engaging. The extensive scope of this book enables it to be of use to a wide range of librarians; those looking after public, academic, school and many types of special interest libraries.
This book has fulfi lled its aim but it is more than just a comprehensive introduction. It can be practically used by any librarian in the fi eld and will be of great use even to those experienced in collec- tion management.
Julie Davis
County Local Studies Librarian, Wiltshire Council
This is a fascinating case study of a unique space with the plan- ning constraints of a conservation area. The project adhered to a strict schedule and the old library was decommissioned whilst ensuring the needs of staff and students continued to be met. Weekly site visits proved invalua- ble to improving the plan. Much work was done to prepare for the relocation, including signifi cant stock handling. To reduce the stock by 49 per cent, the expertise of teachers and librarians was vital. Classifi ca- tion systems were amalgamated and print resources were strictly organised to ensure a smooth transition. The catalogue was up- dated and RFID tags fi tted. The benefi ts of employing a specialist library mover are clear, and it was good to see a mention of child safeguarding in the checklists. Having taken into account
diff erent ways of learning, trends and blue-sky thinking, they created an awesome library. Librarians have fewer clerical tasks, freeing them to perform valued work
Winkworth, Lynn. SLA Voices: developing the new library at Headington School. Swindon: SLA, 2019. 15 pp. ISBN: 978 1 9112 2216 3. £7.50 (£5 members).
with staff and students. Using Beacon Technology, information is pushed to iPads and smart phones as users enter. With the introduction of an interactive table for 10 students, a dedicated computer area, a com- puter help station where the IT team off er support, digital signage for school and library-specifi c information, self issue and return, sonic chairs for listening to audio without headphones – this library has the wow factor!
The library is now a busy space where focussed learning, relax- ation and reading for pleasure happily co-exist. It received the SLA Inspiration Award 2017. This publication will prove inval- uable to others embarking upon a similar challenge.
Further Reading includes links to suppliers.
Louise Ashton British Library
INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL 49
Book Reviews
pp48-49.indd 5
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