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- The recent experiences of senior library managers in strategic
decision-making, and their implications for public library development
the future of, are explored in this wide-ranging report. Based
on extensive interviews with librarians in the public library
sector, Margaret Kinnell provides a detailed analysis of the
strategic issues facing senior managers: changes in local government;
the place of libraries in relation to other departments (arts,
museums, leisure, education, etc); internal re-organization following
the introduction of corporate management; the shifting political
environment; central and local government relationships as expressed
in legislation; the impact of technology on senior managers;
the increased emphasis on accountability and the measurement
of performance; the management of capital and revenue budgets
(particularly in uncertain political environments); the rise
of entrepreneurial culture and its impact on service philosophies;
and the development of local co-operative schemes and inter-dependence.
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- Throughout the book, the attitudes of expert practitioners
are outlined and examined, and the problems they face are analysed
from a management perspective. This important book will therefore
be an invaluable resource for all concerned with the continuing
development of public library services, and with the relationship
between this sector and the library profession in general.
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- ISBN 0 947568 50 6
- 1991
- £22.00/US$42.00
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- 'I hope.... to persuade all library authorities to stock
this perceptive contribution to management literature.... this
well-crafted book should be read by all professing an interest
in the management and development of public libraries.'
- Library Association Record
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- 'A fascinating book, which provides some rare insights
into the process of change and the factors influencing the direction
of change.... required reading for all those aspiring to high
office in public libraries, and for all students of librarianship.
It is a thought-provoking book.... not only does it make entertaining
and informative reading - it also makes clear the need for political
and financial awareness.'
- Information Processing and Management
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- 'The ideas in this book are vigorously presented.... it
should assist in dealing more effectively with the new, complex
and turbulent environment.'
- Library Information News
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