This is a publication that belongs on the shelves of all librarians in school library media centres, and it can be welcomed for its ability to address the intricacies of technology management and make the daunting task easier.
The book consists of eight chapters, a glossary, list of resources and a bibliography. It concludes with a reasonably detailed index. The chapters cover the following: an introduction to information technology, planning for technology management, acquiring technology resources, technology maintenance and troubleshooting, space planning and management for technology, managing technology resources, policies and procedures for technology and technology for professional development. Through these chapters the book succeeds in supporting the mission of school libraries – to ensure that students and staff are effective users of ideas and information, no matter what format.
The book touches on a wealth of important issues such as: conditions for students' success in using technology in the library, Web 2.0, Library 2.0, linking to the school community, the importance of assessing use, action research, strategy planning for technology management and a link with enhanced learning. There is also content on policies for acquiring information resources in various formats, staying current on issues, and good detail on various trouble‐shooting issues. Resources for communication include broadcasting tools, podcasts, vodcasts, screencasts, blogs, wikis, online groups and real‐time interaction. And there is much more to which a reader can look forward.
The value of Technology Management Handbook for School Library Media Centers lies particularly in the fact that it succeeds in sharing a wealth of detail, facts, examples, experiences and practical advice in an easy‐to‐read style. The reader is well informed, but not overwhelmed, and although the focus is very practical, it is clear that the text is firmly embedded in the theory of good services and a user orientation to school libraries and media centres. Various useful charts and checklists are also offered to help the reader in applying advice and to ease the task of technology management in school library media centres.
This book is highly recommended to all involved with school libraries and school library media centres, as well as faculty teaching on the topic – it is certainly also a text to bring to the attention of students.
