Books, Bytes, and Bridges: Library and Computer Centers in Academic Institutions - Softcover

Librarians working in academic institutions in the last 20 years have developed love/hate relationships with what are now known as Information Technology (IT) departments. With the more recent emergence of ubiquitous computing, distributed networking, digital learning environments, along with a need to contain IT costs and share expertise, forward-thinking libraries and IT departments are forging alliances to plan strategically for the information future. The 35 contributors to this book include library deans, chief information officers (CIO), library science professors, reference and systems librarians, and computer science professors representing large universities, medium and small colleges, and community colleges. The 20 chapters review the history and literature of the issue; outline managerial, strategic planning, and organizational models; and present case studies of both successes and failures. Overall, the writing is clear, concise, and to the point. There is some repetition among a few chapters, but this is understandable because of the narrowly focused topic and the legion of contributors. This book is highly recommended for academic administrators, library directors, and librarians who are planning to "build bridges" between the IT department and the academic library or all those who are suddenly reporting to a CIO.--Robert Battenfeld, Long Island Univ.
-Southampton Coll. Lib., NY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

..".Hardesty's work is the most invigorating professional tome I have read in years. The entries in this collection strike at the heart of what many of us are currently experiencing in our own professional environments." --Serials Review