I haven't been able to blog for a while due to intermittent time off work this year, but I just have to mention this new book coming out soon (15th Nov). In fact, my last post was about starting to write the book!
Mastering Digital
Librarianship: Strategy, networking and discovery in academic libraries
is edited by Alison Mackenzie and Lindsey Martin but contains chapters by many well known folks. I'm pleased to say there's a chapter by me too, writing about our experiences of providing a digital library service to an international branch campus.
"The book examines the changing roles of the librarian
and how working within a rich digital environment has impacted on the ability
of professionals to develop the appropriate 'know how'; skills, knowledge and
behaviours required in order to operate effectively. Expert specialists and opinion makers from
around the world discuss the challenges and successes of adapting existing
practices, introducing new services and working with new partners in an
environment that no longer recognises traditional boundaries and demarcation of
roles.
The book is
structured thematically, with a focus on three key strands where the impact of
digital technologies is significant:
Rethinking
marketing and communication - this strand looks at strategic approaches and
practices which harness social media and illustrate the importance of
communication and marketing activities in these new online spaces.
Rethinking support
for academic practice - this part examines the professional expertise
required of librarians who engage with and support new academic and learner
practices in digitally rich teaching, learning and research environments.
Rethinking
resource delivery - this section investigates the use of strategies to
maximise access to online resources and services - harnessing system data to
enhance collection management and user choice, the design and management of
mobile 'friendly' learning spaces and in providing virtual resources and
services to an overseas campus."
It's going to be a riveting Christmas read - make sure you add it to your must have list!
