Although training in libraries is now well developed in most parts of the country, access to that training is not consistent across sectors or regions. The level at which librarians are now being asked to work is different from that of 20 years ago. Individuals will have some access to training, much of which may be provided internally by their employer. This will be appropriate for some individuals in their library context in many cases, but also sometimes not. The profession is undergoing significant and continuing change and this new handbook offers a much-needed guide to best practice for staff training and development in library and information work. The handbook addresses new aspects of service provision as well as significant areas in which the library profession is now involved. In addition, it reviews developments which are of increasing importance to librarians. The concept of professional librarianship both here and abroad is also considered as the role of the librarian has changed, and promises to continue to do so in an electronic age. Those responsible for the development of staff and line managers will find this handbook invaluable, while those new to the information profession and those looking to develop their career path and future role will also benefit from it.