Selecting and Implementing an Integrated Library System - by Richard M Jost (Paperback)

About the Book

Selecting and implementing an integrated library system poses an important decision for a library. The library investment, in both financial and human resources, represents a significant wager on the future. The staff person responsible for overseeing this project not only must understand the technical aspects of an integrated library system, but also possess skills of planning, communication, and leadership. The project manager needs to be adept in leading change and understanding how it can be a factor in staff acceptance and support. This combination of technical and organizational capabilities provides the blueprint for the success of a library systems project. -- from back cover.

Book Synopsis

Selecting and Implementing an Integrated Library System: The Most Important Decision You Will Ever Make focuses on the intersection of technology and management in the library information world. As information professionals, many librarians will be involved in automation projects and the management of technological changes that are necessary to best meet patron and organizational needs.

As professionals, they will need to develop numerous skills, both technological and managerial, to successfully meet these challenges. This book provides a foundation for this skillset that will develop and acquaint the reader with a broad understanding of the issues involved in library technology systems.

Although a major topic of the book is integrated library systems (a fundamental cornerstone of most library technology), the book also explores new library technologies (such as open source systems) that are an increasingly important component in the library technology world. Users will find a resource that is geared to the thinking and planning processes for library technology that emphasizes the development of good project management skills.