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.

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.

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.

The Small Library Manager’s Handbook is for librarians working in all types of small libraries. It covers the everyday nuts-and-bolts operations that all librarians must perform. Following an introduction, 27 chapters are arranged in six major parts: Management (including staffing, working with volunteers, and annual reports) Marketing (including social networking and how to prove your library’s worth to your boss) Money (including budgeting and grant writing) Services (including reference and circulation) Collection Development (including assessment and weeding), and Professional Development (including free webinars, YouTube videos, and networking) Each chapter is written by an expert. The chapter authors work in academic, public and special libraries. They work in hospitals, prisons, museums, colleges, courthouses, and corporations. Their libraries consist of books across the Library of Congress or Dewey Decimal system, and they work in specialized libraries that use a limited range of cataloging possibilities. Librarians in small libraries wear many hats. This handbook written by experts who are small librarians themselves will help all small librarians to do multiple jobs at the same time.

In addition to providing students with a solid foundation in library management, with its structured, practical knowledge this impressive volume will also benefit experienced managers.

The vast array of social media options present a challenge: it’s tough to keep current, let alone formulate a plan for using these tools effectively. Solomon, a librarian with extensive experience in web development, design, and technology, cuts to the chase with this invaluable guide to using social media in any kind of library. With a straightforward and pragmatic approach, she broadens her best-selling ALA Editions Special Report on the topic and Presents an overview of the social media world, providing context for services like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, and analyzes how adults’ and teens’ use of social media impacts the library Offers advice on easy ways to use these tools on a daily basis, with planning strategies for posting and scheduling Addresses the fine points of Facebook, comparing the various types of profiles and accounts Guides readers in the basics of crafting eye-catching status updates, and other social media best practices Shows how to manage and monitor accounts, including pointers on dealing with negative feedback Including a bibliography of additional resources, Solomon’s guide will empower libraries to use social media as a powerful tool for marketing, outreach, and advocacy.