The text gives broad coverage of all the major issues confronting library directors in today's fast-moving technology marketplace, and will be well placed on the shelves of the many libraries faced with the complexities that information technology developments bring to the library. Giving a useful overview of library systems-from their history to current trends in the technology and marketplace that serve libraries-this book includes coverage of telecommunications, standards, planning, managing technology in libraries, system selection, and more. Specifically designed for core units in library automation and information systems, this text gives students a comprehensive overview of one of the most critical areas of library operations, and enables them to take the lead in managing the complexities that information technology brings to the library.