Informing our choice: Kochtanek, Thomas R, and Matthews, Joseph R Library information systems: from library automation to distributed information access solutions. Westport CT: Libraries Unlimited, 2002. 287p US$47.50 soft ISBN 1591580188

Rather than arguing for a new theory of information organisation, Olson’s book calls for changes in current cataloguing practice that will accommodate the diverse publics of postmodern culture. Most readers will strain to follow Olson’s close reasoning, and those not versed in feminist theory may question her technique of iteration. Nevertheless, librarians — especially cataloguers and reference librarians — will recognise her subject as one of the most intractable problems in library practice over the past century. Perhaps Olson’s most salient point is her optimism for accommodating diversity within the constraints of LCSH and DDC. While readers may initially judge her book to be theoretical, her vision for an improved ‘epistemic cartography’ makes The power to name an immensely pragmatic work. It is strongly recommended for reference librarians and cataloguers, essential for academic libraries that support LIS schools.