Planning Second Generation Automated Library Systems

The focus of this guide is on the implementation and management of second generation automated library systems. It advances knowledge of the field by describing the “migration path” of library automated systems. Specifically, the book is intended to give practical directions in procuring a replacement library automated system. As such, the text reviews new approaches to library automation which rely on knowledge gained over the past two decades. In charting the procurement process, the book includes how to migrate the library’s database. It discusses state-of-the-art technology such as scanning and imaging devices, as well as provides descriptions and analyses of telecommunications and networking technology and issues. This book is intended as an automation planning guide for librarians and library administrators. It expands the subject to include special, public and academic libraries and takes into account the experience of those libraries which have already automated and are considering migration to more powerful automated library systems. Special attention is given to integrated library systems and to innovative and still-emerging technologies which complement these systems.
“Second Generation Automated Library Systems” is written at a level that presumes a certain amount of awareness and experience on the part of the intended audience.

Author Biography

EDWIN M. CORTEZ is an Associate Professor in the School of Library and Information Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

TOM SMORCH is a library automation supervisor in California.