Publisher's Synopsis
In this text, hands-on experiences in simulation games teach concepts and strategies of budgeting and political process in libraries. The games can be used in a number of ways: with students of library science they help build concepts through experiential learning; for graduates they offer an opportunity to keep current and practice problem solving; as a tool for in-service sessions with library staff members of all levels they will cultivate an understanding of the budgetary and political processes; and in planning sessions they can sensitise policymakers to the opportunities and constraints facing libraries.;The first three chapters focus on how simulation games can be incorporated into staff development and educational programmes, the goals they accomplish, and how to design and operate games to fit actual needs. The next two chapters present actual games, complete with necessary data elements. An extensive reading list concludes the book in the form of an appendix. Although designed within a public library setting, with focus on budgeting and political process, the games teach essential principles and strategies that can be readily transferred into any information agency setting.
