Introduction to Library Public Services

by Thomas L. Carter, G. Edward Evans

A library's primary function is to provide access to information considered useful or valuable to the society in which they exist. True to their introduction, Evans and Carter provide a solid, broadly based view of library public service and its functions. As in the preceding edition, its authors marry the importance of the help ethos with a plethora of technological tools and techniques. Coverage of such essential topics as circulation, reference, interlibrary loan, literacy instruction, reserves, and security has been extended, updated, and predicated on the importance of keeping a watchful eye on ethical and legal implications. New to this edition are discussions of staffing and training, customer service, programming, and assessment. The result brings into focus the duties and responsibilities of both professional librarians and support staff, with particular emphasis on areas of common concern.

Genres: Nonfiction, Textbooks

424 pages, Paperback

First published February 28, 1993

Reviews

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was not overjoyed by some of the editing and it seriously bothers me when I find misspelled words or poor grammar in a textbook. The topic was well researched with a page or more of resources at the end of every chapter. There is no way you could read it and not have a clear understanding of what Library Public Services are.

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I haven't read any similar text books so I can't compare, but from my perspective the information is very basic. I would have thought this was for a 101 class, rather than one requiring a 101 prerequisite. Also, the authors are pretty verbose. I felt like there were more places they could have presented the information in outline format, rather than rambling paragraphs.

[S L Faisal S L Faisal]

how to manage library services

[Kim · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very thorough and comprehensive, but verbose. Occassionally had a gem of a statement, but felt like mining to get to them.

[Cathleen · Rating 1 out of 5]

So basic as to be virtually insulting.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dry as a cracker; typical textbook fare. But informative and necessary! :)