Information Technology for Librarians and Information Professionals by Jonathan M Smith

Information Technology for Librarians and Information Professionals by Jonathan M Smith

This comprehensive primer introduces information technology topics foundational to many services offered in today’s libraries and information centers. Written by a librarian, it clearly explains concepts familiar to the I.T. professional with an eye toward practical applications in libraries for the aspiring technologist. Chapters begin with a basic introduction to a major topic then go into enough technical detail of relevant technologies to be useful to the student preparing for library technology and systems work or the professional needing to converse effectively with technology experts. Many chapters also present current issues or trends for the subject matter being discussed.

The twelve chapters cover major topics such as technology support, computer hardware, networking, server administration, information security, web development, software and systems development, emerging technology, library management technologies, and technology planning.
Each chapter also includes a set of pedagogical features for use with instruction including:
Chapter summaryList of key termsEnd of chapter question setSuggested activitiesBibliography for further readingList of web resources
Those who will find this book useful include library & information science students, librarians new to systems or information technology responsibilities, and library managers desiring a primer on information technology.

Jonathan M. Smith is director of library technology at Sonoma State University. He is the lead technologist for the library, where he drives technology development with a focus on collaboration and an eye towards student success. Throughout his career he has led major projects in strategic technology planning, web development, and server migrations, launched two academic makerspaces and an institutional repository, and has taught graduate-level courses in systems analysis and database development.
Smith regularly presents on technology topics at conferences, often focusing on emerging technologies, and has a chapter on Arduino programming in the recent publication, The Makerspace Librarian’s Sourcebook.