Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow: A LITA Guide (LITA Guides)

Product Description Technology is a crucial part of libraries today. But when it comes to figuring out the most effective technologies for their library or to planning for future technology needs, many librarians don't know where to begin. Library Technology Planning for Today and Tomorrow is the place to start. This practical guide will be of special value to those in small- and medium-size libraries, especially those new to the planning process who have not previously implemented technology or who have had difficulty implementing strategic plans. By using this LITA guide overwhelmed librarians can create a sound, realistic technology plan and implementing that plan by identifying each step necessary to accomplish the library's goals. As they follow this road map from beginning to end, library staff will be able to meet the technology needs of their communities and to achieve their library's technology goals. This step-by-step guide takes the reader through the process of successfully creating and implementing a library technology plan. Each chapter addresses an aspect of planning and implementation-from conducting a technology audit and selecting appropriate devices to deploying new technologies and training staff and users. Further, this LITA guide will help librarians evaluate the success of their work in developing and implementing their technology plans. Review Technology is a vital element in providing services for patrons in all types of libraries. Silveira, a library consultant with experience helping formulate and implement technology plans, has written an excellent description of the process of creating, executing, and evaluating library technology plans. This book, which is part of the American Library Association's "Library Information Technology Association (LITA) Guide" series, provides a thorough, step-by-step guide to the technology planning process. Chapters cover assessing needs, setting goals and objectives, and identifying funding sources. Throughout, Silveira's approach is solidly practical: she emphasizes that incorporating existing resources is crucial to executing a successful plan. Though the book is written primarily for a public library audience, librarians in academic and school library settings will find many of the topics covered of great benefit. This book will be an invaluable tool for librarians and library staff involved in technology planning. [Disclosure: Choice is part of the American Library Association, which developed this series.] Summing Up: Highly recommended. Graduate students and professionals.--CHOICEThis well-written and superbly organized guide is perfect for any library large or small. I appreciated Silveira's thorough step-by-step approach that walked me A - Z through understanding my library's technology needs, to developing and implementing a plan, training staff, and conducting ongoing assessment and reporting. It's one of the most helpful books I've read in my career in library management. I highly recommend it for IT Managers and Library Directors--Peter Bromberg, Executive Director, Salt Lake City Public LibraryReaders will save considerable time, money, stress and embarrassing missteps using this blueprint. Silveira leads readers through a library labyrinth with step by step simplicity. Librarians worldwide will be grateful for this guide. Ms. Silveira is a successful library consultant with a comprehensive understanding of library operations. She cares about libraries and even more deeply about library staff.--Jennifer O'Neill, Director of Community Library Services at Queens LibraryThis LITA Guide provides a thorough, step-by-step process for technology planning, implementation, and evaluation. The author takes into account often overlooked technology planning topics: assessing community need, ADA compliance, updates and maintenance, and incorporating new/future technologies into library services. This is not just for the technically savvy. I would reco