ABSTRACT
This article describes the role of the access services manager in the formation and implementation of policies related to patron access to the library and its services. Automation of libraries has made it possible to re-think assumptions regarding levels of service provided, the ways in which these services are offered, and the development of related policies. The types of policies, factors influencing them, their development and implementation, and the expanding role of the access services manager in this process are discussed. Given the speed with which technology changes and the increase of user demands for new electronic based services, a proactive approach is needed to adequately address these and other issues in the future. The access services manager is in a unique position to provide input and support for the type of policy formation efforts required to fully address the library’s response to user access issues in a changing environment.
