Keywords
Citation
O’Beirne, R. (2002), "Public Internet Access in Libraries and Information Services", Library Review, Vol. 51 No. 9, pp. 479-479. https://doi.org/10.1108/lr.2002.51.9.479.2
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
I suspect that this book has been long awaited in many quarters. Libraries, not just public ones, have been offering Internet access for a number of years and have been essentially making it up as they went along. Sturges gives us a framework by which we may assess the main issues; in six chapters he offers insight and examples of best practice.
It may be of interest to note that the structure of each chapter follows a well‐defined model: an introduction, an identification of the issues, some discussion and a conclusion. This tight structure renders the book suitable for those who may wish to dip in at a relevant part in order to solve a problem or address a specific issue.
Chapters one and two deal with the issues and challenges associated with providing access to the Internet. In the following chapters there is a wide‐ranging discussion of policy making with a consideration of ethical and professional matters. The impact of relevant legislation is also noted. Chapter five, which looks at managing Internet access, gives clear examples of good practice. Many of the hot issues are tackled and are effectively dealt with while others, such as staff training, might have benefited from some further material. The final chapter takes the reader through the process that a typical organisation might follow when creating an information policy. This is done in a clear and highly pragmatic way that offers the reader not just a starting point but a generic framework that can be adopted and adapted.
The appendices are thorough and give a depth to this book that makes it an excellent resource for managers contemplating the integration of Internet provision into mainstream service delivery. For instance Appendix four contains policies for Internet access from a number of public libraries, colleges and schools.
For the pioneers, those who have forged their way in this sphere of activity, the scope of this work will appeal. For those at a policy level about to take their first steps this book offers an essential practical resource.