The Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances

An examination of the pay policy line in New Jersey libraries : Table of Contents

Beatrice Priestly — Sat Dec 05 08:01:46 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – Over time, management theory has shaped the structure of libraries. No matter the current view of management by matrix, when it comes to library organizations, there is always going to be a hierarchical structure. The object then is for transparency to be in place, and a recognized sense of fairness and equality. This study aims to address this issue. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reviews the concepts of the literature on management and organization theory, and details the literature on valuing human capital and its recent application to knowledge management work. It then discusses how the literature and its deployment over the years have resulted in the formation of pay policies, and shows the application of Fay Hensen's predictive validity testing to the pay policy line in the field of libraries through the study of the New Jersey Library Association's Guidelines for Minimum Recommended Starting Salaries for Library Staff from the years 2007 and 2008. Findings – By measuring for internal job values at libraries through one or more of the measures discussed here, one can arrive at an analysis of the pay policy of the institution. Using trendline analysis, the paper was able to calculate just what the value, worth or salary of the positions should be in order to have a predictive, orderly, hierarchical representation of salaries within the library organization structure. Originality/value – By measuring for internal consistency in job values at libraries, one can be assured that there are fair demarcations among positions, and yield consistent expectations which are transparent to employees, who will then know what must be done to advance within the organization. A consistent organizational structure, with clearly delineated jobs and equal compensation lets a library know where it stands and where it needs to go from there. By periodically creating a pay policy line study for the organization, human resources personnel can make executives aware of how they may or may not have strayed from balance in fairness and transparent compensation.

The library crisis in New Jersey: a statewide strategy for survival : Table of Contents

Tina Keresztury — Sat Dec 05 08:01:46 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The objective of this paper is to demonstrate how statewide advocacy and advocacy planning can effectively ward off major threats to library funding. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents a case study of New Jersey advocacy efforts when faced with proposed legislation to halve the minimum mandated funding for public libraries in the state. The paper describes various advocacy strategies. Findings – The advocacy process has had encouraging results, although the threat of funding cuts remains. Originality/value – The case study demonstrates that creating a statewide task force to focus on advocacy and other advocacy strategies can be effective in thwarting legislative efforts to reduce library funding.

The fiscal wonders of technology : Table of Contents

Kirstin Steele — Sat Dec 05 08:01:46 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to consider how – or whether – advancing technologies might affect library budgets. Design/methodology/approach – The paper represents a viewpoint. Findings – It was found that less quantifiable factors complicate calculations. Research limitations/implications – It would be interesting to investigate the factors contributing to a library's place on the innovation curve: campus/community factors, individual movers and shakers, what else? Practical implications – Given the changes during the last 20 years, the expressed opinion here is that the library world in 2029 will be vastly different from today. Originality/value – The paper provides an opportunity to speculate about the future.

Resource management: information : Table of Contents

Gary Fitsimmons — Sat Dec 05 08:01:46 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the management of information as a performance standard for leadership. Design/methodology/approach – The approach is to show the importance of managing information well and then discuss how best to accomplish that with specific strategies and examples. Findings – The findings are that library leaders must understand the importance of managing information about their libraries and how to do it well in order to be able to make the best use of that information. Originality/value – The value is in saving time, effort and Angst in decision making, reporting library status, activities, and making the case for budget requests with administrators.

Online tools : Table of Contents

John Maxymuk — Sat Dec 05 08:01:46 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to look at some of the online tools available to librarians. Design/methodology/approach – Various online tools are discussed. Findings – Much can be done on a tight budget with free online tools as long as one retains an openness to try new things. Originality/value – The paper can act as a guide to the online tools available to librarians.

Inviting the donor to give : Table of Contents

Emily Silverman — Sat Dec 05 08:01:46 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide suggestions for communicating library needs and opportunities to prospective donors. Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses and gives examples of outreach communications that can inspire support. Findings – The paper proposes that fundraising opportunities can be communicated and enhanced through a variety of methods. Originality/value – The value of the paper is in its suggestions for promoting the library's needs and opportunities through external communication means.

Being diplomatic : Table of Contents

Mott Linn Jr — Sat Dec 05 08:01:46 GMT 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper seeks to argue that when managing strategically it is important for leaders to use diplomacy to collaborate with other units within the parent organization. Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses and gives examples to illustrate how one can use diplomatic skills to improve the library. Findings – It is helpful for library directors to use diplomacy when interacting with other units. Practical implications – The paper provides one point of view that should be considered when a leader contemplates what actions to take. Originality/value – The paper will help librarians better manage their libraries by considering how to create alliances with other units.