Information science as an interscience: rethinking science method and practice; Information cosmopolitics: an actor-network theory approach to information practices

Abstract

There are three main sections in the book: materials, customer service and access to information. The first section, the largest, covers acquisitions, classification, special collections, collection development circulation and reference services. The next section explains the role of staff in dealing with the variety of clients that use the library for example young people, older adults, that is customer service. The last section on access to information has an emphasis on US law and constitutional rights in relation to censorship, access to information and the Patriot Act. Nevertheless, this section is useful for Australasian library staff to help think about ethics, intellectual freedom and censorship and offers procedures for some tricky situations. For example, steps for follow when the library is asked to remove a book. each chapter begins with the competencies being addressed and also key terms. Chapters end with a summary and discussion questions. Foundations of library services would be a welcome reference guide to new library staff whatever the position – library assistant or librarian. For newly trained staff it provides steps and practical advice for the always varying situations that arise in the library. For librarians, it could provide an overview of other library sections and procedures for staff that they manage. The fact that there is extensive coverage of US law with regards to censorship and rights should not put off Australasian readers. Library service, conceptually, is the same all over the world. it is acquiring and supplying the right information resources to the reader without prejudice or bias. This book provides the practical means to do just this.