All librarians confront the issues associated with preserving digital materials. Though aimed primarily at archivists, this book is a great introduction to the various models of electronic preservation for all information managers. Dow (Louisiana State Univ., Baton Rouge) leads the reader through the maze of preservation standards and electronic protocols step by step. The management of electronic records is described in a well-reasoned fashion, current methods are illustrated, and ways to update the described practices are included. Reasons for accepting and rejecting electronic information in archives, the handling of that information in various ways, and the techniques of decision making are clearly explained. Each chapter is very well documented with bibliographic notes. VERDICT Essential reading for all archivists, records managers, and librarians faced with the ever-changing world of electronic information management.—Margaret Sylvia, St. Mary's Univ. Lib., San Antonio, TX

According to the publishers, this is the first of a new series designed for busy public library professionals dealing with practical solutions for a myriad number of responsibilities. The 32 chapters are taken from previously published magazine articles (15), books (11), online articles (4), and papers (2). Unfortuantely, many of the articles are out of date; a quick specific subject search in online magazine databases would provide more accurate and current information, actually saving more of the professional's time. Chapters taken from books are out of context and don't give enough information on the specified topic; a chapter may refer to details found in other parts of the book not included here. Librarians would be better served by having the entire book. The various writing styles and differing levels of technicality are jarring in one volume. VERDICT The publishers have missed the mark on this repackaging of previously published material. Professionals will make better use of their time by reading current online and print periodicals, as well as newly released titles. Not recommended.—Marie Bruni, Huntington Memorial Lib., Oneonta, NY

This is not a how-to manual for working with digital records but instead provides a good conceptual overview of the impact these applications have on special collections. Whittaker (head, special collections cataloging, Ohio State Univ.) and Thomas (head, rare books & special collections, Northern Illinois Univ.) partner here to promote the use of Web 2.0 applications and technologies within the cultural heritage communities of libraries, archives, and museums. The work provides insight on and examples of how institutions can use a wide variety of 2.0 applications for internal work processes and to promote their collections to a wider public. Chapters devoted to the opportunities and challenges these technologies present to collection description and access, preservation, copyright, and use are particularly thought-provoking. The greatest disappointment of the work is that the impact of these technologies on collection development is never given an in-depth examination. VERDICT Recommended as professional literature for special collections professionals.—Kate Farley, Armstrong Atlantic State Univ. Lib., Savannah, GA