Next Generation Corporate Libraries and Information Services recognises the increasing challenges facing the library function in organizations of all sizes and industry sectors. In light of the changing business environment, growing demands on the information services function and, for many, massively reduced budgets, this critical new report will provide you with real-world practical advice that will enable you to overcome these challenges and improve service delivery. Next Generation Corporate Libraries and Information Services will provide you with the information you require to benchmark your strategies, ensure you continue to deliver the services that are required, and demonstrate your vital and integral role in how your organisation operates. Featuring case studies, insight and contributions from information resources and library professionals across a number of business sectors, this new report will cover topics including: Emerging roles: how the librarian's role is evolving in response to the changing business environment; Co-ordinating with other support functions throughout your organisation; Supporting, contributing to and optimising knowledge-management practices to enhance service delivery; How can librarians play a key role in competitive intelligence initiatives? Managing budgets in the current climate, and effectively emonstrating ROI to senior management; Developing a strategic business plan - building the business case for increased resources, staff and additional technology; and Taking advantage of the latest technological advances and trends - including social networking, blogging, RSS and corporate wikis. The report is written by Constance Ard, whose extensive 13 years of experience in working in corporate libraries and information services, coupled with expert opinion and key case studies from leading firms including Beachcroft, Merrill Lynch, YMCA and more provides a truly comprehensive look into the future of library and information services and allows you to learn from your peers who are tackling and overcoming the same challenges you face on a day-to-day basis.

CONSTANCE ARD offers information and content management solutions through her consulting practice Answer Maven. Before launching the consulting practice, Ms. Ard was a practising law librarian for 12 years. She received her MSLS from the University of Kentucky in 1995. Throughout her career, Ms. Ard has worked to develop a strong background in management and research as well as project management. Ms. Ard specialises in working with organisations to assess information problems, user needs and expectations and offering solutions to improve and leverage company expertise to solve those problems. This specialty includes working closely with management, end-users and information technology. Technology and information are irrevocably intertwined and in order to meet user requirements information and content managers must work collaboratively with IT to ensure organisations meet their business goals. Ms. Ard is expert at facilitating those relationships. Currently Ms. Ard serves as the Chair-Elect of Special Libraries Association Legal Division and will become Chair in January 2010. She received the Outstanding Chapter Member Award from the Kentucky Chapter of Special Libraries Association in 2006 and the Professional Member Award in 2008. She also received the Kentucky Libraries Association Special Librarian of the Year Award in 2007.