Implementing Technology Solutions in Libraries: Techniques, Tools, and Tips from the Trenches

Citation

Bayat, B. (2011), "Implementing Technology Solutions in Libraries: Techniques, Tools, and Tips from the Trenches", The Electronic Library, Vol. 29 No. 5, pp. 724-725. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640471111177134

We are now living in the age of technology and the age of information simultaneously. Regardless of so much information surrounding us, an overwhelming amount of new technology is increasingly confusing us. So, it is so difficult to recognise, how, when and which technology we should use. The technology revolution continues and challenges all organisations including the libraries to keep up with it.

This book has 13 chapters. Chapter 1 emphasises that librarians should identify the libraries' needs based on proper planning and prioritisation to meet the technological demands of library users successfully. Chapter 2 discusses building project teams, having meetings, and the need for initial research to identify real needs. Chapter 3 tries to show how we can investigate the appropriate vendor(s), provide a proposal, identify a great deal of information, analyse it, and make decisions. Chapter 4 demonstrates reliable communication. Chapter 5 concerns plans and decision making. Chapter 6 discusses implementation handled jointly by the vendor and library staff. Chapter 7, on evaluation of the process, indicates some tips for library managers and vendors. Chapter 8 discusses customisation and finalising implementation. Chapter 9 gives some tips for staff training and customer training. Chapter 10 revolves around the “go live” approach to launching a new system. Chapter 11 provides step‐by‐step guidance for circulation staff on exactly what steps to follow in order to handle transactions in the new system. Chapter 12 talks about taking a look back and getting feedback to learn from each project and to avoid repeating mistakes in future projects. Chapter 13 offers a five steps process (planning, documentation, testing, training, and evaluation) for implementation technology solutions in libraries.

This well written book is based on an inductive approach that helps readers involved in the process of implementation from scratch to final steps. It has an index and six useful guiding appendixes to help librarians make better decisions in practice. I, as a library and information science expert, believe that the book can be a solution and acceptable handy book in all of the world, especially in developing countries.