True to its title, this book covers foundational library services in a way that is easy to understand and digest. It also provides important resources for readers to learn more and dive deeper into why and how libraries serve their users. Keeler's organization is thoughtful, making it easy for one to look through the whole book or select chapters about specific services. The book is concise but full of meaningful details, and each chapter begins with a list of topics covered and a list of key terms with their definitions. At the end of each chapter, Keeler provides a summary, discussion questions, and activities that can be used to further explore and deepen understanding of the library service discussed. Including notes, an up-to-date and carefully curated list of references, and suggested readings and websites, this is an excellent overview of the basic functions of a library, and a perfect antidote for those who remark to library staff that 'it must be nice to be paid to read all day.' Recommended.

Choice Reviews

Foundations of Library Services: An Introduction for Support Staff (2nd ed.) by Hali R. Keeler will prepare all ILS support staff students (LSS) to meet the challenges affecting our libraries today. Keeler's 35 years of experience in the information science field is self-evident through her discussion questions and activities, reinforcing foundational library service concepts. As a full-time professor in an ALA certified undergraduate ILS program, I always seek textbooks that convey foundational concepts that are easy to understand with realistic examples and expectations. Keeler's book provides a blueprint towards creating a robust syllabus on the subject of library services.

Anastasia S. Weigle, assistant professor Information and Library Science, University of Maine at Augusta

I highly recommend this book to all library workers as it presents more practical information as opposed to highly technical or theoretical information. Keeler does an excellent job of preparing library support staff members to contribute to the resources and services that libraries and practicing librarians provide to different patron communities on an everyday basis. This book and series are highly recommended for the purpose of presenting the ongoing training that is needed for library workers of all ages.

Journal of Electronic Resources Librarianship