A library’s collection is often its single largest investment. Carefully developed for the specific needs of users, it’s also the library’s unique competitive advantage… until users try to navigate it. Studies point to an increasing level of user frustration in trying to access appropriate library resources and as a result, they’re opting out of the library for the research needs.  more >>

When it comes to selecting an Integrated Library System (ILS), there are many factors to be considered with respect to both commercial and open source solutions. Customer support, third party integration, consortia concerns, underlying platform, and institutional stability are key parts of the equation. More than ever, libraries must consider the source of the software applications that keep all library resources accessible, manageable, and affordable, with the ILS at the center of its operations.  more >>

Users’ expectations of information search changed dramatically in the wake of Google and continue to evolve. Some studies point to a slow, but steady disintermediation of the library from the research process. Yet, libraries have a powerful competitive advantage in the quality, breadth and authority of their content – an advantage recognized and valued by users, especially in the academic library.  more >>

Are you drowning in data found in your researching regarding today’s economy? Do you question its validity and relevancy? If so, join us for an informative discussion on how librarians can be part of the statistical literacy movement, how data and statistical resources are evaluated, and the types of information about data and statistics that one needs to know to provide assistance for their patrons.  more >>

The firestorm of controversy around Dan Brown’s books; the Dalai Lama’s international and interfaith following; the devoted readership of Marianne Williamson—all these point to a worldwide and inexhaustible appetite for personal spirituality that goes beyond church and shrine, and speaks to the health of the body, the wholeness of the spirit, and the curiosity of the seeking mind.  more >>

Our communities are facing a challenging economic future, and in every way, library services and staff are affected. Asked to provide more service with less funding, libraries need to maximize usage of print and electronic resources to enrich and extend the library’s impact and value to the community. Likewise, libraries should position their staff as experts in creating and managing the collections that best serve their communities.   more >>

More than ever, communities across the country are relying on their local libraries for support in these tough economic times. From helping patrons convert old resume files to enabling military families to connect overseas, libraries are challenged with offering more services on smaller budgets. This one hour webcast will walk through over a half dozen free solutions that can help with some of the library’s toughest patron services challenges  more >>

Get the buzz on new and forthcoming titles directly from the source! Sign up for LJ's Spring Book Buzz webcast and get four prominent publishers in front of you to discuss their spring 2009 new and upcoming fiction and non-fiction titles. This exciting 60-minute presentation will help guide your purchasing and collection development and give you an insider's perspective to both satisfy your love of books and to share with your patrons.  more >>

Whether you want to promote new programs or keep patrons updated on longstanding services, word-of-mouth marketing is the ticket to build awareness in your community and get people talking about your library in positive terms. Word-of-mouth marketing (WOM) offers your institution and staff a low-cost way to identify and harness social networks that can be used to spread the library's message and service offerings.  more >>

Ever think about getting an MLIS (Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science)? Or how about going for that Ph.D.? And what could you do with a MARA (Master's Degree in Archives and Records Administration)? Join panelist Ken Haycock, professor and director of the School of Library and Information Science at San José State University, and faculty, alumni and students to learn about the many advantages of obtaining or advancing your degree with the SJSU SLIS distance learning program.  more >>