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A practical guide on how libraries can support ‘new arrivals’


THIS book is the first in an important new series from Facet Publishing, Libraries and Social Justice, and its author John Vincent is a leading authority on the subject. It has particular relevance at a time when immigration is so high on the political agenda. As such it should be available to all library admin- istrators tasked with welcom- ing new arrivals. The book opens with clear definitions of refugees and those seeking sanctuary.


A substantial part of the book is retrospective, provid- ing a succinct account of the major developments in 20th century immigration and mixed British attitudes to it. This is followed by consider- ation of the response to new arrivals and their information needs by libraries, decade by decade. In three moving case studies leading professionals outline their personal experi- ences as newcomers.


The second half of the book considers how libraries ought to respond to new arrivals today and cites lessons from elsewhere, drawing upon sub- stantial research, to provide clear and helpful guidance. A cautionary chapter considers the barriers faced by immi- grants in availing themselves of library services: including problems relating to lan- guage, joining procedures, paucity of suitable reading materials and perceived unfriendliness.


This book is readable, clear 46 INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL


Vincent, John. Libraries and Sanctuary: supporting refugees and other new arrivals. London: Facet Publishing, 2022. 238 pp. ISBN 9781783305001. £40. CILIP members are entitled to 35% discount.


and constructive in its guid- ance. The author has drawn upon the experience of many successful initiatives from academic and public librar- ies in the UK and abroad and these are featured in a number of case studies. It is encouraging to read about so many varied and innova- tive projects: ranging from musical events in Bolton, or providing sanctuary boxes for primary schools on the Wirral. Careful consideration of this readable and positive book will ensure your library is a real sanctuary for newcomers.


Diana Dixon Oakham


Pragmatic and thoughtful book for data leaders


THIS highly readable publication aims to give the reader a different way of thinking about data and the ways in which it could be used to create value. It introduces the concept of Halo data consisting of the core data and the cloud of data orbiting around the core. Halo data can be assigned to different orbits possessing different stability, energy and veracity. If this sounds more like physics than data science, the authors make the Halo data concept relevant by providing illustrations of Halo data in action. Examples given include the usage of data by financial services to assess an individual’s credit worthiness or websites employing a range of metadata to set dynamic pricing such as flight prices which increase after a user has searched a particular flight several times.


To derive value from data, the authors propose Halo data framework which encompasses the purpose of data activities, people in the organisation, method in which the organi- sation works and tools needed to maintain and use data. The people layer is the most important as people’s behav- iours, skills and leadership are key to obtaining value from data.


Data collection, sharing and handling raises questions about ethics which the book examines in a practical manner suggest- ing some principles which can be followed to balance the need for protection of privacy and


Carruthers, Caroline and Jackson, Peter. Halo Data: understanding and lever- aging the value of your data. London: Facet Publishing, 2023. 160 pp. ISBN 9781783306176. £24.99. CILIP members are entitled to 35% discount.


human rights while facili- tating data exploitation. The book does not shy away from pointing out that Halo data can pose a potential risk by allowing for identification of individuals whose data is part of large anonymised datasets. Once enough pieces of data are combined, anonymous data could stop being anonymous. Written in a pragmatic and thoughtful style and grounded in thorough understanding of data strategy and management, this work will inspire the read- ers to explore the value of data in their organisations.


Margaret I. Katny London


January-February 2024


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