ABSTRACT
The authors summarize the contents of this book, which provides support and guidance for librarians moving to different size or type of library. There is a discussion of the current state of libraries, including politics; budget; high demand on library services; libraries reinventing themselves to provide new services and prove their ROI (return on investment); issues surrounding Open Access and journal subscription models; and the challenge of dealing with homelessness, mental health issues, poverty, and similar challenges in the community. The current impact of COVID-19 and potential future fallout are discussed. The authors offer ways to monitor library trends and forecasts to benefit your career. They consider what the future holds for libraries in the area of funding; library associations; professional development costs; new technologies and formats that libraries will adopt; partnerships with external entities such as local government or postal or delivery services; patron privacy; and the future of the integrated library system. The chapter gives encouragement to find your support system, care for yourself, and push beyond your comfort zone. There is a list of characteristics that may help librarians succeed in changing library environments and closing with words of wisdom from interviewees.
