Combines theory and practical advice to address public library policies, procedures, resources, and human relations in a clear manner. "Expect future editions of this eminently readable, yet well-documented text." —LIBRARY JOURNAL

Integrates principles of public library management with a marketing approach to library service. Offers solutions for administrators faced with the challenge of hiring and training staffing amidst economic pressures, social change, and technological developments.

Public libraries have historically faced challenges as viable units in local government. As society struggles with issues related to the scope and effectiveness of government, librarians must ask, “How and why will communities support public libraries in the 21st century?” Public Library Administration Transformed covers public library administration in a comprehensive and detailed manner Chapters cover: administrative functions of the library public finance administrative law library governance human resources leadership strategic planning program management and evaluation marketing and public relations intergovernmental relations cooperative government The discipline of public administration develops skills that are vital to successful libraries. Grounded in the context of public administration, this book provides a framework for future library services, focusing on effective public sector skills, organizational and service innovation, information technology, readers, and the full range of library constituents. Suitable for use in public library classes, exam copies are available to qualified instructors of such courses upon request.

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.

Creative Management of Small Public Libraries in the 21st Century isan anthology on small public libraries as centers of communities serving populations under 25,000 that make up most of the public library systems in the United States. A wide selection of topics was sought from contributors with varied backgrounds reflecting the diversity of small public libraries. The thirty-two chapters are arranged: Staff; Programming; Management; Technology; Networking; Fundraising; User Services and provide tools to lead a local public library with relevant and successful services. This volume shares a common sense approach to providing a small (in staff size or budget) but mighty (in impact and outcome) public library service. The contributors demonstrate that by turning the service delivery team outward to the community with enthusiasm and positive energy, it is possible to achieve significant results. Many chapters summarize best practices that can serve as checklists for the novice library director or as a review for the more seasoned manager working through new responsibilities. Chapters are tactical, focusing on specific issues for managers such as performance evaluations, effective programming, or e-reader services. Time management is crucial in a small or rural public library as well as the challenges associated with managing Friends and volunteers. While most public libraries do not have the resources to satisfy customer expectations for instant gratification, ultra-convenience and state-of-the-art technologies, The authors of this book details strategies and methods for providing top-notch customer service while moving beyond customer service to the creation of meaningful customer relationships. This volume makes an important contribution to the literature by reminding us that public libraries transform communities of every size. In fact, never before has the role of the public library been a more critical thread in the fabric of community life.

Sponsored by the Bertelsmann Foundation, the International Network of Public Libraries series recognizes the challenges faced by today's librarians. Consisting of sixteen experts from ten countries, the network strives to create a forum in which information and expertise can be shared in order to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of libraries. Their approach is highly practice-oriented; case studies present especially successful solutions. This series is an innovative resource for public library professionals. Ute Klaassen of the Gütersloh City Library, Germany and Chris Wiersma of the Grönigen City Library, the Netherlands, apply the concept of Total Quality Management (TQM) to the field of library science. They propose models and strategies for meeting the needs and expectations of library customers in order to gain their acceptance and loyalty. Thierry Giappiconi of the City Library of Frèsnes, France, discusses the implementation of marketing tools and techniques to complement and augment existing library strategies, discussing factors such as product, price, distribution, and promotion. Giappiconi cites the importance of setting high standards of customer service through close examination of customer needs.