Models For Library Management Decision Making And Planning

CD-ROM contains: Computer spreadsheets and Visual Basic macros that correspond with the book.

The problems of managing libraries have been multiplying. The operations of libraries have become increasingly complex, involving in many cases mechanization, centralization, and computerization of library services. The size and scope of collections have grown rapidly as they attempt to keep up with the geometric expansion of knowledge, and so have the variety of services offered or contemplated and the expectations of users. These kinds of change and growth have made it more important than ever that libraries utilize comprehensive frameworks for planning and decision making concerning their operations and resources, and the major focus of this book is on the development of such analytical frameworks for university and large public library systems. "It is in the spirit of making a contribution to the development of such frameworks," Professor Hamburg writes, "that this book has been written.... Since there is an inseparable need not only for improved library statistical data systems but also for the above-mentioned frameworks for rational planning and decision making, we have devoted considerable effort to the development of analytical models that might assist library administrators in making decisions that would maximize the flow of benefits imparted to the communities the library serves. Some of the results of this model-building effort are reported in these pages.... "Some of the methods discussed in this text fall within the discipline known as management science (or operations research). There is a large communications gap between librarians, who use English to make themselves understood, and management scientists, who routinely use mathematics as a language. We have tried to communicate clearly to those concerned with library management, and, except in parts of Chapter 4, we have managed to keep the presentation on a verbal rather than a mathematical level." The six chapters are entitled Introduction and Summary, Library Objectives and Overall Performance Measures, A Framework for Library Decision Making, Library Models and Empirical Findings, Development of a Management Information System for Libraries, and Higher-Level Decision Making.

In the seven chapters of this book, first published in 1991, the topics of planning and creativity as they apply to the management of academic libraries are discussed fully, with specific examples and detailed guidelines. Topics such as involving all members of the library staff in decision making and encouraging creativity in an unstable work environment are explored, as are new developments like performance measures.

Libraries enter into strategic planning by a variety of routes, from dynamic technology and rising costs to budget cuts and pressure for change. In this book, Joe Matthews guides library managers towards a greater understanding of the role and attendant responsibilities of strategic planning. Academic, public, and special librarians alike will benefit from Matthews' cogent explanations, real-life examples, and time-tested recommendations. In the process, Matthews addresses such intrinsic questions as: Why is it important that I add strategic thinking to my managerial arsenal? How will strategic planning benefit my library, and is there more than one way to go about it? What is the best way of monitoring and updating our strategic plan for maximum effect? In each case, he debunks false impressions, attends to the goal of providing good service, and identifies at least one new way to communicate the library's strategic importance in the lives of its customers. Academic, public, and special librarians alike will benefit from Matthews' cogent explanations, real-life examples, and time-tested recommendations.

Over the years many of the libraries have become large and complex organisations presenting a challenge to a librarian. Managing a large library is a highly specialised and complicated job. Due to changing environment, especially technological one, his job has become very challenging. A librarian in such an environment should have a managerial ability of a high order, and possess different kinds of skills including technical skills in the application of information technology with adequate knowledge to solve multidimensional problems. Keeping in view, the requirements of students of library and information science, the book presents a framework of basic knowledge of management in electronic environment. Emphasis has been laid on basic issues and concepts of management. Principles of management and theories of management have been explained. Library routines have been described adequately, keeping in view the application of information technology.

Giesecki (dean of libraries, U. of Nebraska-Lincoln) offers library managers practical and innovative strategies geared toward setting goals for the department and delivering first-rate library services. Mentoring, team-building, decision making, taking charge, and working and communicating with staff at all levels are among the secrets she reveals.

In addition to providing students with a solid foundation in library management, with its structured, practical knowledge this impressive volume will also benefit experienced managers.