This paper examines the role of communication in library leadership. The discussion is organized into 14 sections: (1) multidimensional approaches to effective leadership communication and varying communication style to the situation; (2) the importance of conciseness; (3) streamlining library communication; (4) the vision being communicated by…

This paper begins with a discussion of the role of communication in the organizational setting in general and in libraries in particular. Four attributes of effective communicators and the responsibility of library managers to foster a communication climate manifesting these attributes are then examined: (1) trust, (2) empathy, (3) openness, and…

Discussion of the homeless in American public libraries focuses on harmless individuals who may be considered nuisance by library staff/patrons. Highlights include literature about problem library patrons, national problem, social issues, major themes (offense to others and library staff, balancing rights, and elitism), and implications for…

Book reviewed by Robert D. Stueart points out the need for organizational change in academic libaraies and suggests new organizational and work system designs and ways of incorporating them. Academic libraries are urged to begin thinking in terms of client needs, rather than organization of work into categories. (EJS)

Describes operations research as an important management tool that can aid library managers in effectively using available resources and as a set of analytical tools that can enable researchers to better understand library and information services. Early history, definition, models, applications to libraries, and impact are noted. Twenty-five…

Two dominant motivational theories are reviewed--valence-instrumentality-expectancy theory and reinforcement theory--and discussed in terms of management, motivation of professional staff, rewards for achievement, and needs consistent with both theories (affiliation, power, achievement, competence). A 17-item annotated list of references is…

Reviews a number of studies done to identify the personality characteristics of librarians. Fifteen references are cited. (CHC)

Highlights some of the developments in the following areas that have taken place during the period 1977-87 in British university libraries: (1) library resources; (2) automation; (3) collection building; (4) technical services; (5) reader services; (6) management and staffing; and (7) cooperation. (71 references) (MES)

Examines the role of research in assisting library managers to operate libraries more effectively. Strategies for research and for library managers to better create and use research are suggested; conceptual and practical issues that affect research utilization are discussed; and the need for improved efforts by both library managers and…

Reviews early methods of formal training for library acquisitions, textbooks pertaining to the subject, and relevant library literature to provide a historical perspective on education for acquisitions. Strategies to provide basic and adequate training in acquisitions for all librarians are suggested. (49 references) (CLB)

Examines the position of assistant/associate director (A/AD) in libraries and information services. Interpersonal, informational, and decisional responsibilities of the A/AD are discussed; and leadership qualities are described in the areas of vision, communication skills, organizational learning, empowerment of others, and integrity. (30…

A search of "Library Literature" and "Library and Information Science Abstracts" yielded 49 articles published in the 1980s on librarians' burnout. Content analysis techniques were used to identify relevant factors and variables. Findings indicate stress crosses all types of libraries, appears more prevalent for reference…

Discusses general issues involved in conflict management and provides more specific examples of conflict management in libraries. Causes of conflict are considered, including organizational structure, departmentalization, performance appraisal, poor communication, and technological change; and methods of dealing with conflict are described,…

Selective review of the collection development literature for 1991 discusses the access versus ownership issue; organization, policy, and planning; budgets and finance; selection; assessment, weeding, and preservation; and special collections. (177 references) (MES)

Review of the 1991 literature on descriptive cataloging discusses objectives and foundations of cataloging; cataloging simplification; three levels of standards for record content; cataloging techniques, including authority work, provision of main entry, transliteration, formation of name headings, and automation; procedures related to record…