The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances

Dark times : Table of Contents

Kirstin Steele — Sun May 24 14:15:05 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to consider the importance of librarians and library budgets, specifically, what a hierarchy of library needs might look like. Design/methodology/approach – The paper adopts a viewpoint approach. Findings – The budget serves other, ongoing purposes, of course, but the very presence of a budget indicates that the vision is important, worth whatever mulch and compost and labor we can devote to it. Originality/value – The paper presents an original viewpoint of budgeting for libraries in “dark times”.

Library space in the digital age: the pressure is on : Table of Contents

Cynthia K. Robinson — Sun May 24 14:15:05 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this article is to discuss the need for librarians to be proactively involved in institutional decisions regarding repurposing or annexation of library space. As libraries transition from print to electronic delivery of journals, especially in STM intensive libraries, administration will begin to question the need to retain large runs of bound print journal volumes, especially in light of the ever-present space crunch faced by many institutions. Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides a viewpoint based on the experience of repurposing library space for alternative use. Findings – Librarians must be proactive when addressing library space issues. It is imperative that librarians are actively involved in defining the direction and future of the library rather than waiting for the decision to be made for them by their institution. Originality/value – The paper advocates the need to be proactive rather than reactive in planning for the future use of library space.

Resource management: people: Gaining buy-in : Table of Contents

Gary Fitsimmons — Sun May 24 14:15:05 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this article is to discuss the part that gaining buy-in plays in practicing the leadership performance standard of managing people effectively. Design/methodology/approach – The approach is to show how people are stakeholders and how to appeal to that connection with the organization to gain buy-in for projects and programs. Findings – The findings are that the effective leader can secure buy-in for projects and programs by appealing to the connection of organizational stakeholders. Originality/value – The value is in learning how to advance organizational goals through projects and programs by securing cooperation from all of the people involved.

Library texts : Table of Contents

John Maxymuk — Sun May 24 14:15:05 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss how text messaging offers a variety of ways to stay vital and visible to younger patrons with whom libraries most need to establish a relationship to ensure their future. Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses narrowcasting, one-to-one communication and reference queries, all methods of text messaging Findings – Even with the inherent drawbacks of message length and the incurring of charges by library users, there seems to be a place for text messaging services within the library framework. Because of the portability, popularity and pervasiveness of cell phones among our users, particularly our younger ones, this service is a way for us to stay current. Originality/value – The paper provides an original viewpoint on how text messaging could be used in libraries.

Staying positive in a down economy : Table of Contents

Emily Silverman — Sun May 24 14:15:05 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide suggestions for sustaining effective marketing and fundraising in challenging economic times. Design/methodology/approach – This paper discusses and gives examples of marketing and promotion strategies to sustain fundraising. Findings – This paper proposes that, in an economic downturn, donors and stakeholders will respond to positive messages rather than tales of woe. Originality/value – The value of this paper is in its suggestions for telling the library's story in ways that encourage financial support.

Politics: the art of the possible : Table of Contents

Mott Linn Jr — Sun May 24 14:15:05 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper seeks to argue that when managing strategically it is important for leaders to view situations from multiple perspectives, one of which is the political point-of-view. Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses and gives examples to illustrate how one can consider situations from the political vantage point. Findings – It is helpful for library directors to consider situations from the political perspective. Practical implications – This provides one point of view that should be considered when a leader contemplates what actions to take. Originality/value – This paper will help librarians better manage their libraries by considering the political perspective when assessing situations.

Design for sustainability : Table of Contents

James W. Marcum — Sun May 24 14:15:05 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – To begin making the library sustainable requires a vision of what will be created and a description of the outcome of the process. This paper aims to address the issue Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides a viewpoint on developing the sustainable library. Findings – Libraries have important roles to play in the unfolding internet saga, from preserving and organizing knowledge to accelerating and designing learning environments. Achieving sustainability is the new imperative, but the process is difficult, not easy. New mindsets, new strategies of collaboration and networking, widespread professional and staff engagement, and measuring and managing progress are all challenges to be met. Practical implications – In these troubled times clear vision and purpose are needed to maintain stakeholder support. Sustainability provides a model for designing appropriate vision, facilities, and services toward that end. Originality/value – The complexities of designing sustainable libraries requires ongoing discussion and exploration. This paper adds insight to the debate.