Every profession needs an introductory text to its core body of knowledge. This definitive textbook is the most up-to-date introduction to the profession of librarianship for students and new entrants to the profession available. It is also the first to give a complete overview of all aspects of professional librarianship in the 21st century, and to offer authoritative analysis of modern libraries and librarianship. Key areas covered include: * libraries and information services: evolution or revolution? * information resources and services * information organization and access * library and Information users and society * library technologies * library and information management * LIS education and training. Each chapter in this user-friendly text features clear learning aims and objectives and a list of revision questions to test and consolidate knowledge and understanding. Readership: Mapping onto course content for library and information studies in the US, UK and Australasia, this textbook also supports CILIP’s Body of Knowledge and provides a single source of introductory explanations of library and information concepts for students. It is also the quintessential primer for new professionals.