Library offers a wealth of information

Planning, 16 May 2008

Summer is coming after what seems like an endless winter in the UK. You may well have questions about the changes that took place in the planning world over the winter, talks to prepare, projects to plan or papers to write. You may also feel the need to brush up on your knowledge base but unsure where to find information on planning.

As RTPI librarian, I can shine some light on the latest publications in the world of planning. I am also able to offer advice on methods to plan and search for planning information, planning theory books and learned journal articles, especially those with extensive reading lists. Other secondary sources offer essential information for more in-depth research.

Check the catalogue and RTPI library and information pages on the internet for new publications on current topics such as environmental protection. The latest acquisitions on this subject include The Atlas of Climate Change by Kirsten Dow and Thomas E Downing, which looks at the evidence, causes and consequences of global climate change. Those interested in sustainability and the environment will find this a valuable source for research and debate.

If you need information to guide you through the environmental planning maze, it is worth reading William Blackburn's Sustainability Handbook. Rather more extensive, it is an in-depth management guide on how to achieve social, economic and environmental responsibility. It covers a range of challenges, complexities and benefits of sustainability for planners and professionals in business, government and other professional bodies.

The handbook also puts forward ideas on how organisations can reach economic, social and environmental excellence. It offers practical approaches and tools including a model sustainability policy for organisations, summaries of sustainability codes and selection tips, a wealth of metrics and supplementary reference material. This is the essential sustainability reference for every organisation.

For more publications on sustainability, the library search and services pages on the RTPI's website have guidance and links to the library catalogue. The online catalogue offers information on books, reports and journal articles on a range of planning-related topics. All RTPI publications are indexed in the library catalogue, which you can search from any computer. There are also links to RTPI publications and good practice notes. The library operates an enquiry service and can offer advice on sources of planning information as required.

Melissa Wyatt is RTPI library and information manager. For more information on sources from websites to publications, please email library@rtpi.org.uk or call 020 7929 9452. Appointments for specialist information requirements can be arranged.