Library Security: Better Communication, Safer Facilities
| Date | 06 June 2016 |
| Pages | 550-551 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/EL-11-2015-0227 |
| Published date | 06 June 2016 |
| Author | Philip Calvert |
| Subject Matter | Information & knowledge management,Information & communications technology,Internet |
several, such as Glenda Browne’s The Indexing Companion, Linda Fetters’ Handbook of
Indexing Techniques and Nancy Mulvany’s Indexing Books. Instead, Badgett’s book
discusses the broader aspects of what it takes to become an indexer.
The book begins with a chapter on the need and demand for manual, analytic indexing,
even in today’s publishing environment; the chapter also provides an historical overview of
the profession. Chapter 2 discusses, in broad terms, why and how people become
professional indexers; Badgett notes that most are freelance and work from home, a situation
which has both its attractions and its challenges. The next chapter looks at the forms of
indexing (i.e. the sorts of document worked on by indexers, including books, journals,
databases, ebooks and websites). Those traits typical amongst successful indexers are
discussed in the fourth chapter (not surprisingly, most indexers are self-reported introverts
and not desperate for the limelight). Chapter 5 considers training and professional
development options, while Chapter 6 looks at the equipment and tools indexers need
(including indexing software). The business aspects of freelance indexing are covered in the
following chapter and striking the right work-life balance in Chapter 8 (tips on alleviating
stress caused by publishers’ deadlines are also offered). Some examples of indexing
entrepreneurship are described in Chapter 9. The nal chapter provides useful advice on
how to set up an indexing business and get started.
Badgett writes clearly and succinctly, and the book is well organised (and indexed).
It draws very effectively on the professional literature and on an informal survey of
colleagues recently carried out by the author. It is based on the American context (e.g. of
business law), but most of the content is equally applicable to international audiences.
The author’s website includes a compilation of links from the book.
Philip Hider
School of Information Studies, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, Australia
Library Security: Better Communication, Safer Facilities
By Steve Albrecht
American Library Association
Chicago
2015
165 pp.
US$ 55.00 soft cover
ISBN 978-0-8389-1330-7
Review DOI 10.1108/EL-11-2015-0227
This is a book that will catch the attention of nearly all practicing librarians who work
with the public. There is hardly a librarian alive who has not had to deal with a customer
being aggressive, rude or improper, but there is actually very little advice available in
the literature. Albrecht, a recognised expert and speaker on the subject of library safety
and security, has given us the book that the profession needed. The author has a curious
background. His father wrote bestsellers on providing quality service to customers.
550
Book reviews
To continue reading
Request your trial