A new set of educational materials on the evolving information professions, edited by Dr. Sandra Hirsh, director of the School of Information at San José State University (SJSU), is now available. Information Services Today: An Introduction combines an introductory text, support materials for instructors and students, and a series of webcasts.

“The information professions are changing quickly, and they’re expanding into new territories,” said Hirsh. “Our educational materials need to keep up with changes in the field. The available introductory textbooks were becoming outdated, and we felt both students and instructors would benefit from a current, comprehensive text, along with supplemental materials that extend the book’s content and relevance.”

Available in print and ebook formats, Information Services Today provides an overview of the information professions that is useful for introductory courses as well as for new and experienced professionals who want to fill gaps in their learning or refresh their skills. The text addresses the transformation of libraries as information organizations, why these organizations are more important today than ever before, how technology is influencing the provision of information resources and services, and career opportunities. Forward-looking insights address emerging issues of the profession.

Published by Rowman & Littlefield, the textbook features contributions by recognized leaders in the field, including information school professors, library deans and directors, and experts from around the world. Editor Hirsh is a long-time educator and information professional who has worked in a variety of environments, from Silicon Valley high-tech companies to libraries and universities. An expert in user experience design, she is currently president of the Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T).

Information Services Today was designed as a multimedia package. The core text is supplemented by online resources for students and instructors, created by Hirsh, that can be updated with current information and fresh examples over time. A companion series of free webcasts hosted by Library Journal will feature discussions with Hirsh and selected chapter authors on relevant topics. Launching in April 2015, the six webcasts will be archived for on-demand viewing.

“Our partnership with Library Journal has helped us make this a true multimedia experience,” said Hirsh. “Learning materials need to be vibrant and engaging, especially in online environments, so it was important for us to provide rich content that supports the way people are learning today.” The SJSU iSchool offers fully online master’s degree and professional education programs that serve students worldwide.

To learn more about Information Services Today or request an instructor exam copy, visit the publisher’s website. Supplementary student materials are posted online; for more information about instructor materials, email textbooks@rowman.com. To access the Library Journal webcasts, visit Information Services Today: An On-Demand Webcast Series.

SJSU iSchool students and alumni will receive a 30 percent discount by mentioning promo code 4S15IST when ordering any format of the book (paperback, hardback, or ebook) from the publisher. This offer expires December 31, 2015.