Library Journal
The Library Journal is a peer reviewed professional
publication. They publish a magazine, newsletter, webcasts, website, and blogs
of interests to academic, public, and specialty librarians. They review books, publish
articles and webcasts on topics such as current trends in libraries, notable
librarians, and various opinions of the profession written by those currently
in it. Their website offers a “Career Zone” where a career in the library
profession can be researched, and job opportunities can be posted. Of all the
publications I am required to read for my job, The Library Journal is my favorite.
I enjoy learning about what other
libraries are doing. I find the articles inspirational and have taken note on
several ideas that I have translated into something we could do at my library.
My favorite feature is the “Pre Pub Alert.” As a materials selector, I have the
“Pre Pub Alert” section of The Library Journal out as I order. I find this
publication to be a great tool.
The American Archivist is a peer reviewed professional publication
as well. They publish a journal,
newsletter, brochures, and several free publications intended for archival
professionals and those interested in the field. They publish articles and
information on topics of current trends, notable persons in the profession, and
review books related to the archive profession. As a public librarian in a
small community, this publication is not one I would not necessarily subscribe
to. I do see the value in knowing about it, and perhaps reading some of the
articles every so often. Archives are important to researchers, which the
public library does serve, and I could see how knowing archival methods and
resources would be of use.
Notable Comparisons
Both of these publications are peer reviewed. Peer review is
important because it helps to, “maintain standards of quality, improve performance, and provide credibility” (Peer
Review, n.d.). They both offer several different publications, although The
Library Journal offers more, such as webcasts and blogs. I believe both of
these publications would be of interest to those in the library and information
profession, even if their careers are outside of the intended audience.
From reviewing these publications, I have come to realize
how important these and similar publications are to the library and information
profession. The availability of these
journals help keep those that are no longer in school informed on current
trends. They allow for librarians and information professionals to learn from
each other, and take what others are doing and implement these ideas in their
own careers. These publications are incredibly important to keeping the
profession moving forward.
References
Library Journal. (n.d.). Library Journal. Retrieved March 24, 2014, from http://lj.libraryjournal.com/
Peer Review. (n.d.).Wikipedia. Retrieved March 24, 2014, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peer_review
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