Managing Library Technology: A LITA Guide

by Carson Block

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
How libraries fit into the overall technology marketStrategies to future-proof library technology effortsApproaches to technology planning that stick - and strategies to keep the plan on trackSkills to understand technology investments by understanding the total costs of ownership and the specialized library return on technological investmentHow to collect and use useful data and statistics without being overwhelmedHow to stay current, knowledgeable and comfortable with rapid technological change--Corin Haines, manager services to Public Libraries, National Library of New Zealand "Public Libraries"

Genres: Nonfiction

127 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 3, 2017

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is mainly a book about Carson Block's own experience in library technology improvement plans. For a library title, it is fairly bereft of any outside sources to back up his own experiences.

Although some of his advice is useful, I was dismayed at the lack of resources provided to use for technology plans.

[Erin Maloney · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is crucial that all library staff, regardless of the type of library, know the basic core concepts of how to effectively use the library's technology for both themselves and for patrons. Block's book is a great guide for librarians of all ages and levels to really get to know the technology within their library and the skills needed to use it. For the more hands-on librarians, Block's book also contains an exemplary technology plan roadmap that they can utilize, replicate, and modify for their own library's needs. This book focuses on how to educate yourself on the library's existing technology to become an expert and an outlet for patrons and students.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brief overview of library technology management, this title is useful as an introductory text. Block's style isn't the most effective at conveying critical points - instead, sometimes it feels too broad while at the same time too much of a personal story. I did enjoy, unlike some other reviewers, the personal examples Block provides. However, the examples were not supported by enough content broken down into applicable pieces. The supportive content of the text tend toward summaries and statements than practical advice. Again, though, it is important to remember that this is an introduction to the subject. I am sure other textbooks are appropriate for more advanced study. Personally, I found it useful for my purposes (a non-IT bound MLS graduate student).

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Textbook

[Elizabeth]

School read.

[Taylor Worsham]

Read for LI815: Information Technology in Libraries

[Cathlina Bergman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Practical and written with a sense of humor! Enjoyable textbook.