The second edition of Information Services Today: An Introduction, edited by San José State University School of Information’s Director Sandra Hirsh, and with contributions from multiple faculty members, has been published.

The second edition of Information Services Today: An Introduction, edited by San José State University School of Information’s Director Sandra Hirsh, and with contributions from multiple faculty members, has been published by Rowman & Littlefield.

The book builds on the first edition currently utilized in library and information science (LIS) programs to prepare graduate students for the rapidly evolving information profession.

“Technology is changing what it means to be an information professional. Today’s digital environment eliminates barriers to global engagement and learning and is continually transforming,” said Hirsh.  

Rowman & Littlefield Executive Acquisitions Editor Charles Harmon worked with Hirsh on publishing both editions and expressed, “The first edition was revolutionary because no other LIS text had all the digital assets that Dr. Hirsh’s text offered … including webinars to accompany each major part of the book.

“This new second edition not only extends all that but addresses changes in information services and introduces new concepts not covered before, including change management, design thinking, advocacy, and data management and analysis.”

Key themes addressed in the book include:

• transformation of libraries and librarianship;
• diversity and globalization of information services;
• new skills, competencies and roles;
• leadership and career management.

Each chapter is authored by a subject expert, and several chapters feature contributions from SJSU School of Information faculty members, including Cheryl Stenstrom, Michael Stephens, Mary Ann Harlan, Wayne Disher, Sue Alman, Frank Cervone, Maureen Mackenzie, and Ruth Barefoot. 

“The book provides a comprehensive overview of the roles and responsibilities of information professionals as we meet the needs of our varied communities. The breadth of topics benefits students who are new to the field, as well as those who have experience in libraries and information organizations,” Alman said.

As supplemental materials to the text, 27 of the authors were interviewed on trends and issues in their respective areas, which are available in a series of 10 accompanying webcasts. Chapter presentation slides, discussion questions, and other online accessible materials are also available to further engage readers and deepen their understanding of the topics.

To learn more information about Information Services Today: An Introduction, Second Edition, and to order the book, please visit the publisher’s website.