The Tech Set 16: Next‐Gen Library Redesign

Citation

McNicol, S. (2013), "The Tech Set 16: Next‐Gen Library Redesign", New Library World, Vol. 114 No. 5/6, pp. 274-274. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074801311326911

Next‐Gen Library Redesign is one of ten new titles in the Tech Set series which provide practical instructions and advice on emerging technologies. Rather than focusing on a specific area, this volume presents more an overview of some of the options available to librarians who want to make use of new technologies to improve the customer experience. The topics covered include website clean‐up strategies, incorporating social media, creating interactive subject guides, creating public profiles for staff and using crowdsourcing. This book is therefore suited to library staff with a general interest in new technology who are looking for ideas for ways to use these tools to best effect in a library setting.

Michael Lascarides starts with a general discussion around the themes of disruptive innovation and the customer experience to argue when a “next generation” library is necessary. The second chapter then looks at some of the types of solutions available and the factors which influence the suitability of these, such as technical team and budget. The options considered include wikis, blogs, open source software and mobile solutions. This is followed by short sections giving a basic overview of planning considerations and social mechanics such as consultation and training.

The most substantial chapter of the book deals with implementation, focusing on a number of projects which librarians might want to undertake. For each of the six projects described, the author provides detailed information at a level suitable for those who are actually going to carry this out. Helpfully, each project includes real life examples and screenshots from successful projects.

The book finishes by considering marketing, best practices and metrics, before a brief look at future trends to look out for.

Next‐Gen Library Redesign therefore provides an interesting selection of case studies which will be of interest to library staff interested in making the most of newer technological tools to enhance their service. It serves two functions: providing inspiration by highlighting newer ways in which new technology can be used; and providing guidance to those who actually want to implement a project such as crowdsourcing interaction subject guides. This book therefore has a wide audience, but it manages to address the needs of both groups effectively, offering both inspiration and practical information about new technology projects.