It is well known that the way an organization is led and managed affects its culture, the productivity and effectiveness of its employees, and its success as an institution. Health care is not exempt from this fact, nor are health science libraries. This well-written text packs a large amount of information into a slim volume and, in the process, gives a good glimpse into what a well-run, successful health sciences library is and does. The ten chapters cover the essential topics a new or current manager needs to know to stay current in the role. Of special note is chapter 2, which discusses the current trends facing medical libraries today, especially the trend toward digital and virtual operation and away from print and in-person, and the loss of accreditation requirements for a medical library. Other chapters cover leadership skills, personnel issues, accreditation and evaluation of the library itself. This book contains information that would be useful for anyone in a library leadership role, whether it is an interim role, filling in for an absent leader, or an appointment to a permanent leadership position within a library organization. Highly recommended. Graduate students, faculty, two-year technical program students, and professionals.

Choice Reviews

Traditional libraries take note: Medical and health sciences libraries are leading the way through the transition of library collections and services in the electronic resources age and the transformation of libraries within our academic institutions, health programs, and academic medical centers.Managing Health Sciences Libraries in a Time of Change is a must-read for those leading and aspiring to lead these special libraries.

Martin Wood, MSLIS, AHIP, director, Charlotte Edwards Maguire Medical Library, Florida State University College of Medicine