The author of this article, a card-carrying member of the American Library Association (ALA), discusses her views on how difficult it is for some leaders to accept that this is the 21st century. She feels that people do not need to choose between blogs and printed text, because people can read both. She also feels that library shelves have room…

This book offers advice and information to help librarians manage and interact with computer technology in their institutions. Chapters 1 and 2 provide a background in systems librarianship, outlining the skills that may be needed and defining the specialty. Chapters 3 and 4 show how traditional library skills such as the organization of knowledge…

NextGens making the jump into management, or those lucky (or foolhardy!) enough to do so right out of school, often find that the challenge of managing established staff takes some of the momentum out of the ability to effect change. Some older librarians find it hard enough to believe that NextGens are their peers; they simply shut down when…

Discusses how librarians can learn to become knowledgeable about computer systems to keep their libraries technologically relevant. Highlights include organization and record keeping; finding needed information; learning how to network, both with equipment and people; library instruction; and the importance of lifelong learning. (LRW)

Librarians looking for an increased connection with the profession have traditionally gotten involved with associations. They become American Library Association (ALA) members, join a division or round table, perhaps volunteer for a committee. They take part in their state association, attend state conferences, perhaps present a poster session or…

Despite the discussion about the greying of the profession, librarians seem to agree on little but this: the jobs being vacated are generally upper-level and the departure of retiring library managers fails to translate into a glut of entry level spots. This article describes how NextGens should prepare to move into management and other upper…

When discussing NextGen concerns, common problems are faced in talking about any difference. These include the perception that pointing out differences is exclusionary; the misunderstanding that talking about the issues facing NextGen's means those issues are exclusive to that group; and the problem that people's interaction with individuals tends…

In the evolving librarian profession, perhaps the most important skill is the ability to become change leaders within the organizations. If librarians truly want to bring the NextGen enthusiasm, outlook, and skills to bear on institutions and profession, then they must be able to inspire colleagues. Librarians need to be able to show when and why…

What's the best way to find out what younger professionals think? Just ask! In this article, several librarians, ranging in age from 25 to 35, reveal their thoughts about their profession. These NextGens share common concerns about the few entry-level opportunities available, noting also that short-term budget solutions like cutting staff or…