In The Accidental Systems Librarian, author Gordon takes the approach that anyone with a solid foundation in the practices and principles of librarianship and a willingness to confront changing technology can serve effectively in a library technology position-with or without formal computer training. Her advice on using organizational, bibliographic, and research skills to solve various systems problems is geared to helping "accidental" systems librarians develop the skills they need to succeed and the confidence they need to excel. 

An essential book for any librarian who wants to deal more effectively with technology in her or his institution, The Accidental Systems Librarian features a foreword by Kathy Dempsey, editor of Computers in Libraries magazine; an introduction; nine chapters; more than twenty explanatory figures and sidebars; a recommended reading list; a directory of Web sites; and an index. As a reader bonus, links to over 150 useful Internet resources are provided on a regularly updated Web page.

Chapters include: 

• Defining Systems Librarianship	• Research Techniques	• Independent Study
• Technical Areas You May Need to Master	• Networking	• Administration & Management
• Organization of Knowledge	• Instruction Techniques	• Life Lessons

Rachel Singer Gordon was computer services head at the Franklin Park (Illinois) Public Library until 2001, when she left to pursue a full-time career as a writer, editor, and Webmaster. She is the founder and Webmaster of the library career site LisJobs.com, the "Computer Media" review columnist for Library Journal, author of Teaching the Internet in Libraries, and co-author of The Information Professional's Guide to Career Development Online.

Advance Praise for The Accidental Systems Librarian
 

"Gordon has covered a wide range of technologies and issues that are essential to systems librarians. This well-written and engaging book belongs on the desk (not the shelf!) of every systems librarian-accidental or not." 

-Roy Tennant 

"This is a great book for beginners and veterans alike. From defining what we do, to what we need to know and how to share our knowledge, The Accidental Systems Librarian covers all the bases. If you're curious what it takes to be a library geek, this is the place to start." 

-Blake Carver LISNews.com

"The perfect primer for anyone who has to support computer technology in libraries. Whether you are a systems librarian by choice or by chance, Gordon's real-world examples and practical advice will show you how to manage your computer systems so that they don't manage you!" 

-Andrew Mutch library systems technician Waterford Township (Michigan) Public Library 

"The Accidental Systems Librarian is entertaining, informative, and reassuring. As a trainer, I am constantly encountering librarians who were not hired as systems specialists but somehow found themselves in that role. I will be recommending this wonderful book to my students." 

-Michael Sauers, librarian, trainer, and author Bibliographic Center for Research (BCR)