CHAPTER 3 TECHNICAL PUBLICATIONS LIBRARY

Chapter Objective: Upon completion of this chapter, you should have the knowledge to recognize the purpose of the technical publications library, identify the purpose of publication receipt and recording procedures, recognize the various technical publication files, recognize the procedures for incorporating the latest technical publication changes, and identify the numerous types of technical data managed by the technical publications library. You should also be able to identify the numbering systems used on technical publications, identify the forms and publications required to operate a technical publications library, recognize the procedures for procuring technical data (to include automatic distribution and initial outfitting), identify the various types of technical directives, and identify the purpose of technical publications library audits.

The management of the technical publications library is the responsibility of the quality assurance/analysis division. The technical publications library serves two important purposes. It provides a central source of up-to-date information for use by all personnel in the performance of their work, and it is an excellent source of reference information to improve personnel training and individual development. To perform these functions, the technical publications library must maintain at least one copy of all publications affecting the assigned aircraft and related equipment, consistent with the maintenance level of responsibility involved.

LIBRARY ESTABLISHMENT

The technical publications library (TPL) must be a centrally managed function for it to be effective. Therefore, based on activity organization, there are normally two types of libraries within the organization. If more than one library is required to meet local needs, a central library is established to manage the overall distribution of technical information. When one library is designated as the central library, all others within the command are designated as dispersed libraries. Dispersed libraries are responsible for storing and making available to their users the technical documents for the equipment under their cognizance. The central library is responsible for the initial outfitting of the dispersed libraries. Additionally, all requests for additional publications are made through the central library, which is designated on the request forms as the addressee to receive the publications. You should refer to Naval Air Systems Command Technical Manual Program, NAVAIR 00-25-100, for detailed technical library establishment and operating procedures.

PUBLICATIONS MANAGEMENT CONTROL

Central library personnel are responsible for effective library management. Adequate records must be established identifying the type, quantity, and location of all activity publications under their cognizance. A well-managed technical publications library reflects the degree of expertise library personnel bring to this task and enhances technical manual management within the various dispersed libraries.

TECHNICAL PUBLICATIONS FILING AND STORAGE

NAVAIR technical manuals and directives are drilled with five distinctive holes-three large and