Transforming Medical Library Staff for the Twenty-First Century

Reviews / Votes

The world of libraries is changing. No longer are they seen as essential locations to find needed information, as places where the work of librarians is valued. Various societal factors have worked against the inclusion of libraries in the very arenas where they are most needed-educational institutions and medical institutions. Because medical libraries tend to fall into both categories, as the authors note, "medical libraries have been doubly impacted." Written by a cadre of information professionals in higher education and health sciences education, the essays in this collection address the reality that the staff of any library can be the library's greatest asset. Essays on empowerment, training, communication, and other essential topics detail how to achieve a medical library that is functional and adaptive in today's changing environment. From the foreword by National Library of Medicine director Patricia Brennan to the final essay addressing staff recruitment, retention, and reward, this volume is required reading for staff of medical libraries, be they academic or hospital based. In fact, the book is a good read for managers in any library because many of the essays provide words of wisdom that transcend health care.



Summing Up: Highly recommended. Graduate students, researchers, faculty, professionals. * Choice Reviews * From the inspirational Foreword by National Library of Medicine director Patricia Brennan through every chapter, this book is rich with sage and practical guidance that will help managerial leaders develop the staff necessary for medical libraries today and tomorrow. It is a 'must read' for every supervisor, manager, and administrator working in a medical library and a valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand how to transform a library staff. -- Maureen Sullivan, consultant and 2012-2013 president of the American Library Association The work is timely and readable, and can be consulted by specific chapter or consumed cover to cover. The biographies of chapter contributors reads like a "Who's Who" of the Medical Library Association, evidenced by their depth and breadth of experience. Each chapter is enhanced with cited references and additional suggested readings. A six-page index aids in finding specific topics. . . . This book is highly recommended. * Journal of the Medical Library Association *