Sue Thompson
Coordinator of Library Systems

Responsibilities

As Library Systems Coordinator, I manage the Systems department which is responsible for developing and maintaining the technologies which provide access to library resources such as the Library Web site and computers for student research. I also offer instruction to faculty and students on Internet research skills, evaluation of online resources, and plagiarism prevention.

Research Interests

Computer science; education; Internet research; plagiarism and copyright.

I have published a paper on a new technique for evaluating Web site usability. I stay on top of current issues in Web site design and usability including participation in national committees and workshops.

I am also interested in the increasingly important and pervasive role of the Systems department in Libraries. I published a paper on establishing a new Systems department. I have been collecting data on changes in Systems department structure and plan to do a survey of university Library Systems departments.

Publications

Thompson, Susan M. “Strategy for Remote Observation” Information Technology and Libraries.

Thompson, Susan M. (2002). “Recruiting and Retaining Library Technology Staff.” Library Hi Tech News. Vol. 19 (No. 8); pp.31–33.

Thompson, Susan M. (2002). “Usability Testing for Reference Librarians.” Library Hi Tech News. Vol. 19 (No. 8); pp.24–27.

Thompson, Susan M. (January 2000). “Internet Librarian ’99: New Tools and Future Trends.” College & Research Libraries News. Vol. 61 (No. 1); pp. 35 – 36, 46.

Thompson, Susan M. and Steven Espinoza (2001). “Strategy for Remote Observation.” Internet Librarian 2001 Collected Presentations. Medford, NJ: Information Today; pp. 248 – 250.

Thompson, Susan M. (1999). “Managing the Web Redesign Project.” Internet Librarian 1999 Proceeding. Medford, NJ: Information Today; pp. 176–183.

Thompson, Susan M. "The New Kid on the Block: Challenges Facing the New Systems Administrator." Innovative Users Group 7, Oakland, CA 99. Program Handouts E5.

Thompson, Susan M. (March 1999) "Riding into Uncharted Territory: the New Systems Librarian."

Professional Memberships

• American Library Association
• Association of Computing Machinery
• College and Research Libraries
• Library and Information Technology Association

Favorite Links

• Phil Agre's How to help someone use a computer
• Purdue's Avoiding Plagiarism
• My own Plagiarism Prevention for Students
• Online's great citation style guide collection with some of the best info on citing online documents
• Webmonkey, the Web developer's resource
• Web page design for designers
• Information and It's Counterparts: Propaganda, Misinformation and Disinformation.

Interests

• Gardening especially landscaping and unusual plants
• Digital photography