Professional Media Reviews, February 1, 2011 

The Expert Library: Staffing, Sustaining, and Advancing the Academic Library in the 21st Century. Assn. of College & Research Libs. Feb. 2011. 373p. ed. by Scott Walter & Karen Williams. illus. ISBN 9780838985519. pap. $48. PRO MEDIA
Remember the old lady with glasses who would shush you in your college library? Some of them may still be around, but they’re not in this collection of 13 new thought-provoking essays, each with sources cited, that discuss academic librarianship today, particularly from the point of view of staffing. Themes include the expanding roles of academic librarians across teaching, assessment, and scholarly publishing. Among the contributing authors are such respected library scholars as David W. Lewis and Marta L. Brunner. The authors identify major trends occurring in academic librarianship as well as how these trends will impact the skills needed for the future success of the library. VERDICT Current academic librarians and directors will find the information in these well-written pieces valuable as they work to improve their organizations and move into the future. A great professional resource for current and aspiring academic librarians and library directors.—Susan Montgomery, Rollins Coll. Lib., Winter Park, FL

Millar, Laura A. Archives: Principles and Practices. Neal-Schuman. 2010. 256p. index. ISBN 9781555707262. pap. $75. PRO MEDIA
Canadian archival consultant Millar presents a new basic primer for modern archival practice and management, geared primarily for general practitioners. Those working in small institutions with limited resources, new professionals, and students of archival management will find it especially helpful. The book’s major strengths include its recognition of the international perspective of the archives profession, its balance of theory and real-world application, and practical tips for implementation by working archivists. The archives focus is mainly on traditional records and manuscripts, with excellent examples of written policies, catalog records, and finding aids included. Unfortunately for those interested in electronic records and digitization, the chapter on digital archives is the weakest, with very few comparable examples of cataloging, finding aids, etc. VERDICT Overall, Millar has provided an up-to-date, clear, and easy-to-use manual for records managers and archival professionals. Recommended for the professional reading shelves in archives and special collections. Historical researchers may well appreciate the book also.—Kate Wells, Fitchburg State Univ. Lib., MA