Information centers and libraries are key resources for access to knowledge and information, the delivery of resource material, and the creation of specialized research services.
HW&W understands the value proposition that libraries and information centers represent. Knowledge professionals, (i.e. librarians, knowledge workers, archivists, information professionals, reference librarians, catalogers, indexers, taxonomy specialists, and more), use their extensive knowledge, analytical skills, and research expertise to support clients in attaining their goals. These specialized competencies are also utilized to create end products of value to clients. The services may be offered exclusively via electronic technologies, or through a mix of online and hard copy (paper) systems.
HW&W’s staff has expertise in all aspects of professional library and information management, knowledge sharing, archives and records management, virtual collections, and web portal concepts for government, association, nonprofit, and private organizations, including academic, public, and special libraries. When a multi-functional approach is advantageous, other specialists join professional librarians, knowledge managers, and archivists to contribute their expertise to a project team.
HW&W's Approach
Analysis for library/information center studies may include an environmental scan to assess the current role of the library/information center, a strategy incorporating acknowledged parameters and a future vision. HW&W designed a customized, focused study plan to incorporate all of the needs of the organization, using the competencies of its wide-ranging staff, to complement the specialized knowledge and expertise of its professional librarians and knowledge experts.
HW&W’s analysis focuses on a range of considerations, which may include:
- Examining new, innovative service options
- Crafting a new strategic plan
- Designing a blueprint for organizational change
- Creating a step-by-step approach for the transition to a virtual library/information center
- Designing processes for incorporating staff ideas and recommendations to make them partners in change
- Analyzing clientele satisfaction and negotiating new agreements for service levels
- Assessing staff morale and methods for enhancing organizational climate
- HW&W uses a practical approach to offer solutions for transforming from the present situation to the recommended strategy.
