Hein Title: Academic Law Library Perspectives: Case Studies and Insights

This book serves as a guide and learning tool, helping to easily transition prospective and new library directors into their position. The guide focuses on the elements of the position that are not explicit in any written description and provides a better understanding of handling the unforeseen aspects of the job.

The guide is broken down into four parts:

• General Advice
• Unwritten Rules
• Service Contributions
• Developing Issues

Most chapters focus on the roles of a librarian (e.g., mentor, mediator, fundraiser, opportunity seeker, politician, or committee member). Each chapter starts with a case study to provide a realistic context in which to examine the subject, followed by expert analysis and commentary.

What sets this guide apart are the unique contributions of more than 30 current or retired library directors who provide valuable insight into their world. The contributions are designed to highlight the multitude of perspectives and approaches used by librarians and represent the full spectrum of academic law libraries. The collective wisdom is what makes this book both useful and practical.

This guide helps the reader:

• Get insider information and advice from more than 30 law library directors who have firsthand experience
• Identify the types of skills needed in the position
• Gain insight into troubleshooting from experienced directors
• Determine whether he/she is interested in or suited for a directorship