Using Consultants in Libraries and Information Centers: A Management Handbook (Libraries Unlimited Library Management Collection)

Garten, Edward D.

ISBN 10: 0313278784 / ISBN 13: 9780313278785

Published by Libraries Unlimited, 1992

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Seller Inventory # ria9780313278785_new

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Using Consultants in Libraries and Information Centers: A Management Handbook (Libraries Unlimited Library Management Collection)
• Publisher: Libraries Unlimited
• Publication Date: 1992
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0313278784
• ISBN 13: 9780313278785
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

This handbook offers a comprehensive discussion of the consultant/library relationship. It includes chapters written by full-time professional library consultants, information specialists, and library administrators who have had extensive experience in using consultants to solve a range or problems in information service. Parts I and II address the need to provide a solid foundation, based on an understanding of what the consultant will do, before arriving on the scene. Practical advice is offered by the contributors which should allow for the library or information center staff to more fully accept the activity of the consultant. A common thread woven throughout the chapters is the need for strong communication. Part III offers views on the roles that consultants may play in the negotiation process, the development of proposals, and in the evaluation of large-scale information systems. Specialty areas of consultancy are discussed in Part IV, while Part V explores the more vexing dilemmas associated with the consulting process. Parts VI and VII provide insights into the future use of consultants and explores alternatives to the use of the traditional external consultant. A bibliographic essay and comprehensive index complete the volume.

New library administrators will find this book of value as they seek to understand the value of using consultants and in establishing effective working relationships with them. Middle management library administrators will find the book of interest as they seek to appreciate the range of specialities that consultants now offer. In addition, library and information science students, as well as consultants themselves, will find the book of practical value.

About the Author

EDWARD D. GARTEN has been Director of University Libraries at the University of Dayton since 1985. He is a consultant specialist in organizational development and personnel issues. He has extensive experience as a Consultant-Evaluator with both the North Central Association and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Over his career he has served in numerous leadership positions with the American Library Association, the American Society for Information Science, and the American Society for Personnel Administration. He has published and edited works in library and information science and higher education.