Head Librarian’s Statement
Since
1958, the library has been at the heart of nuclear information
management. Our collections provide access to trusted information in all
areas of nuclear energy and its applications. Collections include print,
audiovisual and electronic resources, the latter representing by far the
largest share.
Our new reading room provides space to browse latest books, recent
journals and daily newspapers. Databases are accessible through public
workstations. Lectures, exhibits and workshops are organized in our
multi-purpose area.
Our motto “Moving from product- to customer-orientation” proofs to be successful: From 2008 to 2009 the number of walk in users increased by 55%, with an average of over 1’000 visitors per month. The number of research queries increased by 58%. Our customized training sessions quadrupled and information coaching visits duplicated.
Programme 2010-2011
Changes in the nuclear information landscape also entail changing user expectations: While our usage statistics confirm the demand for a strong print collection, we anticipate changing needs and will increase digital content distribution and access. Through expanded partnerships with and among nuclear information providers, we aim at providing access to an information pool that cannot be reached in isolation. Nurturing the International Nuclear Library Network remains one of our main concerns.
None of the above would be possible without the dedication and professionalism of our staff. I am confident that the commitment of our staff, the enthusiasm of our customers and our forward-looking strategy position the IAEA Library well to meet today’s - and future – generations information needs.
Ruth Hahn-Weinert