Systems Librarian

Guided by the editorial support of colleagues in the Library and Information Technology Association (LITA), author Tom Wilson, head of systems at University of Houston Libraries, demystifies this critical specialty. In clear nontechnical language, Wilson answers the befuddling question, What is a systems librarian? Wilson lays no claim to the one right answer. Instead, The Systems Librarian: Designing Roles, Defining Skills will lead you in formulating your own answer, which is the first step to making sound decisions.

Practical advice on using research, organizational, and bibliographic skills to solve system problems. Staff request.

This book presents a series of case studies from systems librarians all over the world. It documents how the profession has changed in recent years with the introduction of new web technologies services such as hosted databases that are supported by vendors rather than in-house, as well as shifts in technology management. New skill sets are constantly being added as systems librarians become much more versed in dealing with service providers outside the library as well as training and supporting their traditional constituencies. Written by practitioners in the field who have real world experience Draws on a wide authorship to show how different perspectives can colour the perception of similar issues Provides real world scenarios where challenges in the field have been met and overcome

Systems Librarianship: A Practical Guide for Librarians offers new systems librarians and interested LIS students foundational knowledge about the field of systems librarianship as well as practical information and strategies for common projects like migrating a library system and technology planning. With up-to-date information based on a survey of 200 practicing systems librarians, the current professional literature, and on-the-job experience, this practical guide covers everything a new systems librarian should know in order to succeed in this field. The first half of the book covers background information about the systems librarian position, hiring trends and job searching tips, as well as essential knowledge on library systems like the ILS, content management systems, and emerging technology. The second half of the book provides how-to information for some of the most common and often daunting projects a new systems librarian might be expected to take on, including systems migration, website redesign, technology planning, and project management. Also included are where to find useful resources and support from the library community, such as pertinent listservs, professional associations, conferences, and journals, blogs, and other professional content. Finally, the book features informational interviews with over a dozen systems librarians working in a variety of library types across the professional spectrum, offering their experienced takes and advice on libraries, technology, and the profession. While new systems librarians can often feel overwhelmed and underprepared for their first professional position, this book will serve as a useful resource for navigating the ins and outs of this dynamic and challenging field.

This book offers everything you need to know about selecting and implementing the best integrated library system (ILS) for your library, whether you purchase and install it yourself or hire a consultant to assist you. This is the book you've been waiting for. Integrated Library Systems: Planning, Selecting, and Implementing is an all-inclusive guide to acquiring a new ILS. Detailed and practical, the book covers every step of the process, from cost-benefit analysis, to evaluating software, writing the request for proposal, and implementation and training. You'll learn about different types of integrated library systems—standalone, turnkey, hosted, software-as-a-service (cloud computing), and open-source—and how to assess your facility and staff to find the best fit. The book also covers evaluation of software and hardware; third-party add-ons, such as RFID; and writing successful budget proposals and justification statements. There is even specific, headache-saving advice on working with sales reps, such as the warning not to ever accept the statement: "The vendor will not be held accountable to the contents of the RFP." Even if you're working with a consultant, this book will help you understand the process and make informed decisions.