The trajectory of U.S. higher education in the next 20 years is portrayed by some as an arc of potential disaster and by others as a slightly upwardly inclined plane that may have some dips along the way. Generally these scenarios focus on the teaching and learning program of higher education institutions and give very little attention to the…

In his article "The McDonaldization of Academic Libraries?" Brian Quinn explores to what extent and to what effect academic libraries have become "McDonaldized," according to the concept developed by sociologist George Ritzer. Quinn identifies a number of ways in which the four dimensions of…

Purpose: This paper aims to elaborate the library data migration process from LAMP (Library Automation Management Program) to the open source software Koha's (2.2.8 Windows based) Pakistani flavour PakLAG-Koha in six legislative assembly libraries of Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach: The paper explains different steps of the data migration…

If you're new to running a library or looking for a refresher, this book can serve as your first reference source for school library operation, providing overview information on a wealth of topics, lists of resources for more in-depth information, and coverage of current topics such as Web 2.0, fundraising, digital booktalks, and cybersafety.…

Successful disaster response is an exercise in managing human resources under very difficult conditions. Catastrophic disasters can disrupt both the physical communication networks and the social networks critical to efficient response and recovery. While a well-designed disaster plan serves as a framework, it often requires communication and…

Explains why libraries need to move beyond the limitations of their old technology when they move to new computer systems with wider boundaries. Describes how to change the work flow by focusing on time factors, including implementation; coordination for staff and departments; patience; reports; and improving public services. (LRW)

Discussion of care and planning given to the implementation of an automated library system highlights informing the staff in the early stages, project management, involvement of the entire staff, the control log, time and money, where and when to go online, and implementation consultants. (EJS)

This 48-item annotated bibliography includes recent, substantive materials on automated circulation systems of all types (batch, online, in-house, commercially packaged) with emphasis on online turnkey systems. Items are categorized into five general sections: general overviews, vendor-specific information, case studies, patron acceptance and…

Suggests guidelines to be followed by library administrators and managers to deal effectively with changes caused by the introduction of automation or technology projects within a library. The need for planning is emphasized, staff participation is stressed, adequate training and preparation are discussed, and financial planning is considered.…

Discussion of issues in management of library automation includes: (1) hardware, including systems growth and contracts; (2) software changes, vendor relations, local systems, and microcomputer software; (3) item and authority databases; (4) automation and library staff, organizational structure, and managing change; and (5) environmental issues,…

Future emphasis in cataloging will be on the sharing of high quality bibliographic records through a national network. As original cataloging decreases, catalogers, rather than disappearing, will more likely be managers of the library's bibliographic control system. (Author/RAA)

Describes the possible roles of an automation librarian working with microcomputer-based applications. Topics discussed include developing original applications; troubleshooting; software evaluation; hardware and software monitoring, maintenance, and upgrading; data protection; staff training; system documentation; negotiation and communication;…

Contributors from five libraries--Bentley College, Boston University, the College of Charleston, the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire, and the Resource Sharing Alliance of West Central Illinois--describe their automation projects, including staff impact; costs and funding; time and schedules; users; computer support; vendors; and consultants.…

This updated edition covers all aspects of library technical services--from acquisitions to managing the cataloging department--with new emphasis on automation as it affects technical services work and those skills that can be developed through work experience or classroom instruction. Part One, General Background, consists of four chapters that…

Fourteen articles address issues related to library personnel administration in an automated environment, such as education for automation, salaries, impact of technology, expert systems, core competencies, administrative issues, technology services, job satisfaction, and performance appraisal. A selected annotated bibliography is included. (MES)