by:
Mason, Marilyn Gell

Publisher:
American Library Association
Published:July 1, 1999
ISBN:0838907571
Format:Paperback
Pages:192

Description: From Library Journal
Strategic management in libraries means paying attention to external forces affecting internal operations. Mason, a longtime LJ contributor and former director of the Cleveland Public Library, presents a collection of essays (some published previously in LJ) that highlight this point. This is not a basic textbook on the subject but rather a presentation of the author's perspective on outside influences on the operation of libraries. Its 20 chapters discuss trend analysis, political contexts under which libraries operate, innovation in libraries and information, economic issues, the impact of technology, literacy, the impact of globalization on librarianship, what role the Library of Congress should play in the profession, and the role of personal style in management. All the essays are very well written and informative. One particularly good section is a comparison of predictions Mason made regarding public libraries in a 1985 LJ article. Individuals seeking a basic introduction to the subject should turn to Robert M. Hayes's Strategic Management for Academic Libraries (Greenwood, 1993) and Hayes and Virginia A. Waltess's Strategic Management for Public Libraries (Professional Media, LJ 11/1/96). However, this work is good supplementary reading for library school management classes or experienced managers.AStephen L. Hupp, Swedenborg Memorial Lib., Urbana Univ., OH
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.