Integrating the Web into Everyday Library Services: A Practical Guide for Librarians

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With the world becoming increasingly more dependent upon the Internet, libraries offer an essential service by providing access to this worldwide network. To help their patrons, modern librarians must have a thorough understanding of this technology. Integrating the Web into Everyday Library Services: A Practical Guide for Librarians is a comprehensive guide to a variety of aspects of Internet use and research. The book is basic, assuming only a basic understanding of computer use and Internet research. This guide begins with: a basic explanation of the mechanics of the Internet and World Wide Web, then moves on to explore the variety of ways that a user can discover online information, how information is stored online via the cloud, and how a librarian can enhance his or her library's online presence. Later chapters explain: how to use the Internet to communicate, how to help patrons research and evaluate information, and how to protect patrons and yourself from online dangers. The final chapter is devoted to helping librarians solve basic computer problems that their patrons may encounter, including troubleshooting Internet connections.

Reviews

[T]his beautifully formatted guide provides thorough coverage of topics as far ranging as the Internets development and inner workings, mechanics of search engine algorithms and logic, cloud storage, the concept of an online presence, online ways to communicate with patrons, evaluation of online information, online dangers (phishing, identity theft, malware, cyberbullying, etc.), and troubleshooting for common computer hardware and software problems. The writing is straightforward, direct, and understandable. . . .Entry-level, midcareer, and seasoned librarians in any library setting will appreciate the background information, level of detail, and clarity of expression. The work is enhanced by more than ten illustrations, numerous shaded textboxes, pertinent references at the end of each chapter, and a four-page index. The content could be used to develop instruction for others who are unfamiliar with the workings of the web or as an on-the-job reference tool for new library staff. * Journal of the Medical Library Association *
Integrating the Web into Everyday Library Services: A Practical Guide for Librarians presents a complex subject in a clear voice accessible to the non-technical reader. The author offers a refreshing break from the technical jargon that is typical of books covering the Internet and the World Wide Web. She puts a human face on the discipline of information technology. As you read, you are drawn into the subject, finding your questions being anticipated and answered consistently. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is currently working or planning a career that would benefit from a better understanding of networking, electronic information management and the Internet. -- Robert A. Pilgrim, Associate Professor, Computer Science & Information Systems, Murray State University, Kentucky

Author Bio

Elizabeth R. Leggett is a freelance technical writer. She has Bachelors degrees in English and Psychobiology from Centre College and a Masters degree in Library and Information Science from the University of Kentucky, and has worked in libraries and archives at Centre College, the University of Kentucky, and Murray State University. She also began a local digital genealogical collection at the Calloway County Public Library. She is the author of Digitization and Digital Archiving: A Practical Guide for Librarians, and her writing on the topic of digital storage and archiving appeared in the 2012 summer edition of Kentucky Libraries.