Latest presentations on SlideShare…

Just thought I’d share a couple of presentations that I delivered at two different conferences last week. First up is my keynote presentation from the SINTO lecture in Sheffield;  “A Look at the Role of Public Libraries in Times of Recession“ And secondly, a joint presentation between myself and Liz McGettigan from Edinburgh City Libraries [...]

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Society of Chief Librarian’s Conference: public libraries, recession, web 2.0 & social media…

Although it’s still early days in terms of official research, public libraries are emerging once again as recession sanctuaries;  providing vital services, in times of economic crisis. I recently presented on this very topic at the Society of Chief Librarian’s (SCL) Conference at the University of Warwick.  (Presentation available via my SlideShare page, click here).  Attending the [...]

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The popularity of the public library soars as economy takes a dive?

In times of economic hardship people have less disposable income and thus tend to cut down on their luxury goods expenditure.  The purchasing of books, DVDs, music, new technologies and branded groceries, alongside outings to the theatre, cinemas and football matches become less frequent as we all try to tighten our belts a little.   [...]

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Why we need to support our public libraries…

I’ve just finished reading a seriously interesting and thought-provoking report; From Awareness to Funding: A study of library support in America and recommend it to anyone interested in understanding more about public library funding and/or marketing.   Funded by a grant from the Bill and Miranda Gates Foundation, the OCLC hooked up with research and marketing agency, [...]

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