The Internet Public Library Handbook

by Joseph Janes, Schelle Simcox, Sara Ryan

Here, in simple, straightforward language, is essential guidance for providing library and information services on the Internet -- including reference services, storytelling, outreach, site design and organization, working with distributed people, and access issues. Written by six key members of the Internet Public Library -- the first virtual public library designed exclusively to serve the online community -- this comprehensive handbook provides step-by-step instructions for critical topics like: adapting library resources to a Web environment, building virtual exhibits on your Web sites, providing virtual services to children, assembling and maintaining collections of networked resources, and adding new resources and original content. The authors also provide detailed guidance for developing remote library services, including technical aspects; specifics for the virtual reference interview process; and staffing, scale, and cost implications. Designed to help transfer librarianship's traditional strengths and knowledge to the Web, this practical guide contains valuable advice for raising money, obtaining sponsorships, working with foundations, publishing, continuing education, software licensing, advertising, forming Friends groups, and more. Profiles of successful remote services like e-mail based "Ask a Question", "Ask the Author", and "World of Reading"; ready reference; online text collections; and an index complete this exciting new guide.

218 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1999