Developing Reference Collections (How-To-Do-It Manual for Librarians) - Hardcover

Cassell, Kay Ann

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1555703631 ISBN 13: 9781555703639

Publisher: Neal-Schuman Publishers, 1999

Synopsis

The massive shift in how information is now published and collected has space, cost, and service policy implications for every library's reference collection. This detailed how-to has two purposes: first, to help reference librarians plan, select, and develop these new collections; second, to help them rework their services in light of changing collections. Cassell discusses selection criteria (with examples), examines the future of the format in the reference collection, and the types of material (e.g.: full text encyclopedia or index). Readers are guided through the necessary collection development decisions, including the advantages and disadvantages of print vs. electronic media for content, content appropriateness for the format, demand, cost (required software and hardware), space (required equipment), time (installation), and the learning curve needed to use -- and teach -- new electronic reference tools. Details on reference book publishers and trends, recommended print and electronic evaluation tools, user and staff education, suggestions, model policies, checklists, forms, and planning tools for the new reference department complete this practical and essential manual.

About this title

From Library Journal

Who would not like a handy manual to help "effectively plan to position their reference departments so they are poised to continuously adapt to new formats and meet new user expectations"? Cassell draws from her experiences in both public and academic libraries in recommending ways of coping with and planning for future changes in reference collections, patterns of reference service, and staff and user education. Her approach is neither cursory nor superficial; examples, model policies, forms, and planning tools are included. Cassell's recommendations are sound, and her book will get you started in the right direction. However, for veterans, the information presented is simplistic and familiar; more in-depth treatment can be found in the periodical literature. For the true neophyte in reference collections and services.
-Janet Brewer, Murray State Univ. Lib., KY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Neal-Schuman Publishers
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 1555703631
• ISBN 13: 9781555703639
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 138