New Routes to Library Success

September 1, 2015

In her search for ideas to jump start library services, Doucett (director, Curtis Memorial Lib., Brunswick, ME; What They Don't Teach You at Library School) interviewed local business leaders and gathered their best ideas. Kickstarter, L.L. Bean, Trendwatching.com, Down East Magazine, and Tom's of Maine are just some of the companies represented. According to Doucett, libraries should be able to test and fail more, and quickly experiment to determine what works. Could libraries provide employees paid time to do creative research and offer them several hours a month to volunteer in their community? There is a lot here for library staff to mull over about customer service and trendspotting. Each chapter lists the questions asked, the big ideas from the interview, a summary of what the author learned, and a list of additional resources. The book is mercifully light on jargon but public librarians could use more suggestions on dealing with library boards, politicians, and funding sources. VERDICT A selection of solid ideas on library leadership is served up with enthusiasm in this useful volume. Readers can emulate the author and interview business managers in their own communities, or use her takeaways.--Susan Belsky, Oshkosh P.L., WI

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