Specifically designed for core units in library automation and information systems, this long awaited new text gives students a comprehensive overview of one of the most critical areas of library operations. Produced by two internationally known scholars, Thomas Kochtanek and Joseph Matthews, this book will enable students to take the lead in managing an immense diversity of information resources and at the same time handle the complexities that information technology brings to the library. Giving important insight into library information systems-from the historical background to the latest technological trends and developments-the book is organized into 14 chapters, each presenting helpful information on such topics as systems design, types of systems, coverage of standards and standards organizations, technology axioms, system selection and implementation, usability of systems, library information systems management, technology trends, digital libraries, and more. New to the acclaimed Library and Information Science Text Series, this book will prove an indispensable resource to students preparing for a career in today’s ever-evolving library environment. Complete with charts and illustrations, chapter summaries, suggested print and electronic resources, a glossary of terms, and an index, this text will be of central importance to libraries and library schools everywhere.