This must be on the wrong list? Right? Wrong! You think IT Ops are of critical importance and subject to unparalleled risks, try being the first to build a nuclear powered submarine force in record speed - from scratch. Explore for yourself and discover how many of the answers sought by IT leaders already exist...just a couple hundred feet beneath the oceans.

Unless you plan to consult or audit within this domain - this book is all you need to be conversant with the general principles.

Can't get this one for free - but can get a discount if you are an ISACA member. Provides the "How to" guidance which is considered outside of scope for the other core CobiT references.

I really like this one. IT will not make you an expert in Six Sigma or ITSM but will does a great job bridging the two and clearly articulating the relationships. This is equally suited for those knowledgeable in Six Sigma looking to learn about ITIL as those familiar with ITIL looking to learn about Six Sigma.

Really a must have for formal ITIL based programs. Yes they are text-bookish, but they are comprehensive and are easier to read than may of my engineering books in college. Every science has to have its common references. They do flow together better than v2 books but can be a bit overwhelming. At least have a set available for reference within the organization.

It amazes me how many folks profess their knowledge and opinion (good or bad) about ITIL without having actually read the core texts - especially those beyond just Support and Delivery. Many aspects within this text are expanded in V3 - but they are not new concept. They were just seldom read in v2. Implementation leads should read this book first to understand the wider elements of ITSM programs.

A favorite recommendation of mine. Makes a great desk reference across all layers of the organization while equally suited to prepare personnel for ITIL V2 Foundation certification. NOTE: V3 version is now available although I have not reviewed it yet.

Good book for the technical perspective behind IT Service performance management and measurements. This is less business focused than some more recent texts but provides some great guidance surrounding the technical side of service management. Good for the Network Operations Manager types.

Best book I've seen on PMO from planning, design to operation. Face it, ITSM is just another Program and the related implementations (and improvements) are projects within it. Don't reinvent the wheel...you won't find a better guide (I've explored many).

Nice lay out and includes some useful templates on CD. More detailed discussions about how to plan the catalog design and why it is necessary and beneficial than on the the services themselves. For that, see book above.