Insider's Guide to Library Automation


Book Description

Libraries are becoming increasingly automated. Many libraries have already become automated, and librarians have had to confront a new set of problems in their jobs. Many other libraries are not yet automated, but will soon be acquiring new technology and new problems. This book provides detailed techniques for coping with the problems inherent in automation. While other works offer thorough coverage of the library automation process, this volume provides case studies of the personal experiences of librarians who have had to solve problems related to automation. Included are case studies from large academic libraries, special libraries, public libraries, and smaller libraries. The first section of the book includes chapters on locally developed library automation systems and how those systems have adapted to change. The second section contains chapters on selecting, buying, and installing automation systems. The third section includes chapters on the sharing of automated systems by different libraries. The fourth section, on database maintenance and conversion, contains chapters important to all librarians. The fifth section discusses the management of automated systems. The book concludes with a bibliographic essay that overviews developments in library automation technology and lists sources for further information.




Choosing an Automated Library System


Book Description

Assists libraries in analysis preceding any decision to automate. Presents a proven planning process, consisting of need analysis, system selection, contracting, installation, & implementation.




Libraries Inside


Book Description

For the most part, institutional librarians are isolated from the remainder of the profession and have little opportunity to discuss the unique demands they face with their colleagues. Ten current or former prison librarians cover all aspects of the prison library here: the prison community, the planning process, professional staff, inmate staff, collection development, services, programs, literacy, budgeting, facility and equipment, automation, and legal services. The contributors are Daniel Suvak, Rhea Joyce Rubin, Sandy Souza, Stephen M. Mallinger, Diana Reese, Nancy Pitts, Ann Piascik, Timothy Brown, Vibeke Lehmann, and Jay Ihrig.




Guide to Library Automation


Book Description




System Design Interview - An Insider's Guide


Book Description

The system design interview is considered to be the most complex and most difficult technical job interview by many. Those questions are intimidating, but don't worry. It's just that nobody has taken the time to prepare you systematically. We take the time. We go slow. We draw lots of diagrams and use lots of examples. You'll learn step-by-step, one question at a time.Don't miss out.What's inside?- An insider's take on what interviewers really look for and why.- A 4-step framework for solving any system design interview question.- 16 real system design interview questions with detailed solutions.- 188 diagrams to visually explain how different systems work.




Managing Library Automation


Book Description

First published in 1992, Managing Library Automation provides a concise, easy-to-read guide to the main factors which librarians and information workers should be aware of when considering computerization. This second edition has been revised and updated with the assistance of Chris Batt to ensure a fresh perspective. The book retains, however, its original brief of not attempting to cover every detail of an extensive topic, but instead, gives the essential facts and indicates significant trends. Historical accounts have been kept to the minimum and no attempt has been made to describe or explain computing techniques except where an understanding of these assists the effective use of systems by librarians. References to further reading are given where appropriate. The book begins by setting library automation within the context of a wider strategy for the use of Information Technology. The importance of careful planning – the first skill of management – is stressed. Subsequent chapters explore the ‘nuts and bolts’ of hardware and software and reveal some of the more significant changes that have now taken place in the five years since the previous edition was published. The ‘human’ aspect of automation is considered throughout the book. Although a more commonplace activity than five years ago, the successful integration of automation into the total library system is still a considerable managerial achievement.







Managing Library Automation


Book Description




Managing Library Technology


Book Description

Managing Library Technology introduces library workers (including non-technical managers, tech administrators and even “accidental technologists”) to core concepts in technology management and provides strategies that will enable them to master the basics of library tech. The content of the book is taken from the author’s popular American Library Association -approved Certified Public Library Administrator course, “Management of Technology,” and is geared to the needs of all kinds of libraries. The book contains easy-to-follow exercises and tools that have been tested in real-world situations with students as they tackled their own evaluation, planning and management challenges. Readers are also given a roadmap to create a technology plan for their library—even if they have no direct technology background themselves. This book helps library workers understand the underpinnings of technology and how to powerfully manage tech to serve patrons and staff alike. Readers will learn: How libraries fit into the overall technology market Strategies to future-proof library technology efforts Approaches to technology planning that stick – and strategies to keep the plan on track Skills to understand technology investments by understanding the total costs of ownership and the specialized library return on technological investment How to collect and use useful data and statistics without being overwhelmed How to stay current, knowledgeable and comfortable with rapid technological change




The In-House Option


Book Description

Here is a timely book that expertly addresses the current impact of automation on the profession of librarianship in terms of its practitioners, standards, and underlying philosophy. In clear and understandable language, author T. D. Webb focuses his discussion--with practical examples--on the important decision of the location of the computer--at the library site or a remote automation center. Designed to be a practical guide to host computer location, this articulate book also addresses the broad professional issues of library automation.