Library Programs Online: Possibilities and Practicalities of Web Conferencing

Citation

Fourie, I. (2011), "Library Programs Online: Possibilities and Practicalities of Web Conferencing", Online Information Review, Vol. 35 No. 2, pp. 320-321. https://doi.org/10.1108/14684521111128113

In a dynamic and challenging professional environment where IT applications and access continue to grow and time available to travel and interact with colleagues seems to become less, Library Programs Online: Possibilities and Practicalities of Web Conferencing brings a timely call for library and information (LIS) professionals to grasp the opportunities on offer. In addition it offers a wealth of tips and guidelines based on the author's extensive practical experience in the field of collaborative online programming initiatives.

In this 159‐page monograph, Thomas Peters start by spelling out the benefits of web conferencing:

In this era of high transportation costs, busy schedules, and tight budgets, Web conferencing software offers another benefit to every library administrator – reducing the cost of public programs, meetings, professional development workshops, and other group events. Beneath the visible part of the online programming iceberg lies a vast array of intra‐ and inter organizational uses to make communications in and between libraries as efficient and effective as possible.

The book consists of 11 chapters including an introduction, a review of online programmes and online programming services in action, developing an online public programming service, web conferencing systems and a chapter on training, orientation and support. It also includes chapters on promotional efforts, longer sessions and the issues of recording, archiving and podcasting. The last three chapters concern the evaluation of an online programming service, a discussion of a selection of key issues such as the arguments for online versus in‐person and why libraries are not making more use of web conferencing software, as well as a final chapter reflecting on the future.

The book concludes with a list of references and resources and an index. A more comprehensive list of references and sources would add value to the publication, and similarly a more comprehensive and in‐depth index might help the reader to gain easy access to the valuable factual information hidden in the text.

My impression is that the author succeeds in sharing his experience and enthusiasm for online programming services. This work bears a strong motivational tone, which is good. However, it seems a bit more difficult to pick up the factual points that might be needed by the newcomer to the field. For me Library Programs Online therefore seems not to be a “quick dip into” publication, but one to be read from first to last page to grasp the wealth of experience the author is sharing. This is not necessarily bad, but something to be noted by a reader who might be looking for a ready reference work on the topic.

Library Programs Online is recommended for all library managers and administrators, as well as those LIS professionals keen to adopt technology in enhancing their interaction with a wider spectrum of colleagues. It might also offer useful ideas for faculty members in preparing future LIS programmes as well adopting ideas and suggestions in their own teaching.