EDITOR'S NOTES
Reimagining Library Services
by Dick Kaser
As spring has returned, we look to fresh starts, and this issue of Computers in Libraries is no exception. Our contributors share their thoughts on how to reimagine the services that libraries deliver and the way they go about developing and delivering them.
Jeffrey Meyer (University of Wisconsin–Madison) discusses his method for curating a free and open ebook repository by harvesting books from the Library of Congress, including many classic works of literature in PDF format.
Jenny Hanson and Robin Isicson (San Diego County Library) provide their tips, tools, techniques, and best practices for managing the rollout of large library systems across a distributed library network. But their tips will no doubt serve you in tackling smaller projects as well and getting all staffers involved.
Meghan Kowalski (University of the District of Columbia) shares her approach to providing better customer service by developing empathy for the users of library services. She shares some practical tips for making your patrons feel welcome and encouraged to use the library.
In the EDTECH section, Dianne Oberg (Ph.D. and professor emerita in the faculty of education at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada) offers a very thoughtful essay about intellectual freedom and why K–12 students are entitled to it.
I had considered calling this issue “As We May Think,” after the classic paper by Vannevar Bush. In a moment of true serendipity, Chad Mairn chose to write his column on that very same thing—so be sure to check it out.
As the seasons change, we often become motivated to clean and redirect our energies. Hopefully, the articles in this issue will inspire you to dust off old ideas and think things over again.
Dick Kaser, Executive Editor
kaser@infotoday.com
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