Managing Information Services: A Sustainable Approach

Citation

Freeman, M. (2012), "Managing Information Services: A Sustainable Approach", New Library World, Vol. 113 No. 5/6, pp. 308-308. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074801211226418

This sturdy and well produced textbook (now in its 3rd revised edition) will prove a handy addition to the shelves of most LIS students and practitioners. Essentially a “Management” book it nevertheless succeeds in covering a broad spectrum of interests and topics centring around modern management and leadership.

Flexibility and innovative thinking are going to be key attributes of LIS workers and the author quotes approvingly Troll's remark: “The freely accessible information on the web, in conjunction with the escalating costs of library materials, threatens the traditional mission of librarians to create and sustain large, self‐sufficient collections for their patrons”. So, a brave new future for LIS opens up – “smart, flexible, innovative” are going to be key factors for LIS workers – as indeed they should always have been.

Lots of good solid management points are made throughout the book and the “management speak” doesn't get too overwhelming or alienating. There is an interesting chapter on “Achieving good corporate governance” which will strike an echo with many LIS practitioners. There is a good clear Index and an accompanying well chosen References List.

In summary, a solid, reputable and forward thinking textbook, suitable for both LIS students and practitioners desiring a further knowledge of the ‘Black Arts’ of management today.