Setting up a Library and Information Service from Scratch

Citation

Bruce, N.M. (2006), "Setting up a Library and Information Service from Scratch", Library Review, Vol. 55 No. 4, pp. 279-280. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242530610660852

This is described as a basic guide and provides a step‐by‐step approach for both qualified, but inexperienced staff, as well as those who have no training. The book covers the “why”, “how”, “who” and “what”, in that order. There has been a deliberate effort to write in plain language, with as little professional jargon as possible. On the whole, this works, though occasionally it feels to this reader as if points lose some of their potential emphasis. A glossary is provided to deal with those terms which are the inevitable “lingo” of our profession.

Each chapter has an introductory list of areas to be discussed and at the conclusion of each, there are bullet points on what has been covered, or a brief summary – “say what you are going to say, say it, and then say what you've said”. It works! The authors take head‐on the challenge that the Internet is the only place you need to go for information today. Coupled with a recommendation to justify why a library and information service is needed at inception, rather than when there are financial constraints, this is wise and practical advice.

The need for clarity in defining the extent of the service, its range of formats, the language and consequence of decisions, as well as the benefits are all highlighted. Reputation management and the role(s) of the information professional in an organisation is an area rightly given prominence, encouraging advocacy of their skills. Having “champions” or supporters of the service is to be sought, as is having a profile within and if appropriate, out with the organisation. A user's “How to get the most from your information centre” is given attention in the final chapter.

One key point not covered, is how someone setting up a service deals with the necessary in‐taking of resources held throughout the corporate body. How do you negotiate with the department that had bought resources you wish to hold for the whole organisation, regarding them as “theirs” as they were bought from “their” budget? What about resources on subscription – negotiating the budget across to the library and information service will be necessary? Does the information professional point out, tactfully, that if there is funding for particular resources being given to the library, it can be taken, or possibly saved, from other budgets? The information audit checklist might also include the current costs of providing information and resources, particularly if it is thought there is known existing duplication of provision.

Tips are offered on how to identify the optimum location and environment of a library or information service, the staffing complement and how to relate to knowledge management. The need to explain the level and nature of business on a regular basis is key to demonstrating the relative value of the service. “No library is an island” might be appropriate shorthand to reflect the attention given to “networks” in chapter 5. Librarians know this and the authors encourage those using their book to take full advantage of the potential networks offer to those using the information service and those staffing it.

Considerable attention is given to ensuring that the reader has at their fingertips the glossary previously mentioned; guidance on how to deal with “library basics” in running the service; a starter list of key reference material; sample copyright declaration form (I might have included the current legislative basis too), press release and brochure; a list of suppliers and other useful organisations, as well as how to search the Internet; and also, a list of references and sources of further reading. While each chapter having its own concluding section is beneficial, the book might have benefited from a conclusion. Overall, I found this to be a useful guide and with its currency, think it will be as useful as intended.