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Free Technology for Libraries (The Library Technology Essentials series, #3)

There are copious amounts of web-based technological products that can be found conducting a simple online Google search. Many of these online resources can be used to help simplify, organize, or restructure library services and tasks. This massive overload of resources can be a challenge when choosing the right solution. Fortunately, this book offers its readers practical ways to approach this daunting task, as well as help evaluate whether or not the selected product will be compatible with their library’s computer system. This book is the third in the Library Technology Essentials series, which “helps librarians utilize today’s hottest new technologies as well as ready themselves for tomorrow’s.” Much like its counterparts, this guide serves as an easy-to-follow handbookwhich introduces readers to some of the newest, free and low-cost technology tools and trends found online. The author, Amy Deschenes, has over seven years of library technical experience and she has become skilled at presenting a variety of web-based resources as solutions to common library technology problems. Deschenes begins the book by familiarizing the reader with basic terminology associated with online resources. The next two chapters list websites and blogs that share information about free library technology and resources. Additionally, Deschenes uses these two sections to give examples of specific online tools and applications with the use of screenshots and step-by-step instructions. The real-life cases in the later chapters are informative and practical. However, it would have been helpful if these had included more examples specific to library departments such as cataloging, library instructional services, collection development, and interlibrary loan. One of the most important aspects of this book is the breakdown of the selection process that can be applied when choosing a new product. Deschenes guides the reader to identify the areas in which technology might be useful, propose a solution, research applications, and finally assess implications for the future. The book also encourages the reader to have a realistic outlook on future technology and a willingness to change as new technologies and technological needs develop. Free Technology for Librariesmay be beneficial in guiding libraries looking for new online products, and is also insightful for those wanting to compare current products that are being used to similar free or lower-cost products. Any library with little to no budget can benefit from this book.