At a time when libraries are no longer the leading proprietors of information, many library professionals find themselves rethinking their purpose. In this collection of new essays, contributors share their experiences and ideas for keeping libraries integral to changing communities.

Innovative approaches and best practices are discussed for strategic planning, packaging, branding and marketing, funding issues, physical spaces, collection needs and trends, partnerships, programming and services, professional education, and staffing.

“Highlight[s] the many ways in which librarians engage with their dynamic and diverse user populations...chapters provide insight into various libraries’ strategies to stay relevant”—Library Journal; “erudite and invaluably informative...recommended”—Midwest Book Review; “Presents the latest creative innovations to offer library users the most up-to-date services from technology through data gathering to access and programming.”—Aline Soules, California State University; “Every great innovation starts with an idea. Learn how libraries transformed their idea into reality with this practical guide to library services.”—Danielle King, Orange County Library System; “A great resource for non-librarian educators who support readers and lifelong learners of all ages.”—Catherine Hiles, WUCF TV, Central Florida PBS; “Frank and relevant with ideas not only cutting-edge but practical, too.”—Nicole Heintzelman, Winter Park Public Library; “Librarians looking for innovative ideas concerning collections, outreach, programming, and space will definitely find plenty of inspiration in this practical book.”—Giovanna Badia, Liaison Librarian, McGill University.

Vera Gubnitskaia has worked as a library manager, consultant, and reference librarian in public and academic libraries in Russia and the United States. She has contributed chapters to several professional publications, edited multiple anthologies, and published book reviews. She is currently an art fellow at Crealde School in Winter Park, Florida. A Michigan resident, Carol Smallwood has practiced in school, public and special libraries. Her primary interest is practical librarianship, and she is the author of journal articles and editor of numerous books.