Small Public Library Management

Those at the helm of a small public library know that every little detail counts. But juggling the responsibilities that are part and parcel of the job is far from easy. Finally, here's a handbook that includes everything administrators need to keep a handle on library operations, freeing them up to streamline and improve how the organization functions. It's packed with practical advice and dozens of checklists for • Preparing budgets, writing financial reports, and working with the library board • Simplifying workflow using the fine art of delegation • Collection development, including tips for effective weeding • Launching initiatives and outreach programs, such as adult literacy programming and homework help centers "Tales from the Field" offer real-world perspectives from library directors across the county. From finance and HR to collection development, policy, and programming, this resource puts ready-to-use information at your fingertips.

At the University of Wisconsin Madison since 1985, Jane Pearlmutter has been responsible for organizing, marketing, and often teaching many continuing education programs in library and information studies, including core courses for public library director certification and leadership training for state library agencies. She also teaches graduate courses in management and collection development. An active member of the Wisconsin Library Association, Jane has been involved in advocacy and long-range planning for public libraries at the local, state, and national levels.

As a department head/assistant director (1978-1986) and library director (1986-2008), Paul Nelson has extensive experience in all aspects of public library administration: governance, advocacy, policy development, budgeting, personnel management, facilities planning, marketing, and long-range planning. Since the mid-1980s, he has provided more than one hundred workshops on these subjects to library systems in the upper Midwest. As Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin Madison School of Library and Information Studies, he teaches a reference and information services course and courses in public library management and library advocacy.