ALA Editions/Neal-Schuman

Using experimentation to make evidence-based decisions

CHICAGO — The last five years have demonstrated that sticking with the status quo is not an option; instead, as the experiences of many libraries show, those that experiment are better positioned to adapt to rapidly changing environments and evolving user needs and behaviors. Cathryn M.

Applying learning theories in real-world contexts

CHICAGO — From makerspaces to book clubs, from media facilities to group study spaces, from special events to book displays, libraries support learning in numerous ways. In “The Librarian's Guide to Learning Theory: Practical Applications in Library Settings,” published by ALA Editions, Ann Medaille unchains the field of learning theory from its dense underpinnings to show how libraries can use its concepts and principles to better serve the needs of their users. Readers will discover:

Understanding and leveraging your data

CHICAGO — Published by Facet Publishing and available through the ALA Store, “Halo Data: Understanding and Leveraging the Value in your Data” proposes a paradigm shift in methodology for organizations to properly appreciate and leverage the value of their data. Co-founders of the data consultancy firm Carruthers and Jackson, authors Caroline Carruthers and Peter Jackson have many years' experience in data strategy, management, and technology. Their book begins by reviewing the current state of our understanding of data.

Using brand behavior to elevate the school library

CHICAGO —Branding isn't just for celebrities and corporations. Published by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) and ALA Editions, “Elevating the School Library: Building Positive Perceptions through Brand Behavior” by Susan D. Ballard and Sara Kelly Johns shows how school librarians can raise and deepen positive perceptions of school libraries through developing a brand in alignment with the AASL Standards.

New textbook elucidates the basic concepts of information law

CHICAGO — Serving as both an accessible introduction for LIS students and a go-to reference for current practitioners, “Foundations of Information Law,” published by ALA Neal-Schuman, is designed to empower readers to understand, rather than be intimidated by, the law. Authors Paul T.

A handbook for effectively serving museum visitors

CHICAGO — The “visitor experience” has been a long-neglected aspect of museum practice, receiving less academic attention than areas such as exhibition design or collections care. Despite this, the quality of the visitor experience is the single biggest factor which will influence visitors returning to your museum or recommending a visit to friends or family.

Hilda K. Weisburg’s updated leadership guide for school librarians

CHICAGO — Deemed “essential” by Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA), “a great read” by School Library Journal, and “comprehensive” by Reference & User Services Quarterly, the first edition of bestselling author Hilda K. Weisburg’s “Leading for School Librarians: There Is No Other Option” has won plaudits for its inspirational yet pragmatic approach.

Using the AASL Standards to assess learners

CHICAGO — Published by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) and ALA Editions, “Assessing Learners: Using the AASL Standards to Measure Competency and Growth” unpacks a complex and critical area of school library instruction aligned to the National School Library Standards. Readers will be able to appropriately select or design assessment tools to measure learner understanding and growth.