Introduction

This standard text has been fully revised and updated for its fourth edition to reflect continuing technological changes, as well as issues such as social inclusion, lifelong learning and European employment legislation.

Chapter 1: The Working Environment

The present environment brings problems of staff motivation, de-professionalization and the loss of control.

Chapter 2: Motivation Theories

Chapter 2 reminds readers of basic motivation theories, now presented in a more logical sequence, and how to deal with such problems.

Chapter 3: Human Resource Planning

Chapter 3 on workforce planning has been retitled Human Resource Planning and revised to take into account the modes of staffing appropriate for today’s turbulent environment.

Chapters 4 & 5: Recruitment and Job Descriptions

Effective human resource planning requires excellent selection and recruitment procedures: best practice and developments in this area are explored in Chapters 4, Job Descriptions and Person Specifications, and 5, Recruitment and Selection of Staff.

Chapter 6: Staff Appraisal

In Chapter 6 on staff appraisal, more attention has been given to multi-rating approaches, such as 360° whereby different aspects of work can be assessed by different groups of people, and to appraisal of junior by senior staff.

Chapter 7: Training and Development

The last decade has seen increased emphasis on training and development to deliver high quality services in a climate of constant change. Chapter 7 has therefore been reordered and expanded in order to reflect new approaches and changes in this area.

Chapter 8: Staff Supervision and Interpersonal Skills

In Chapter 8, recent emphasis on leadership and counselling skills are reflected, as is the growing need to do more with less through enhanced time management and stress management techniques.

Conclusion

With this new edition, this core guide brings professionals involved in managing library and information staff up to date with how to cope with the most pressing problems and challenges in today’s fast-changing environment.