Compares search time and costs of four online searches, identically replicated except for the speed of the modem used to retrieve and download data. Results are presented for 1200-BPS (bits per second) and 2400-BPS modems which demonstrate that searching at 2400-BPS is more efficient and economical. Issues to be resolved before 9600-BPS modems…

Compares the results of three surveys which focused on fees for services in public libraries in California, Canada, and the United States, and discusses the issue of charging for such services. Twenty-three references are cited. (CHC)

Discusses the theory behind the system of the compact disc (encoding process, decoding system), its potential for growth, and its possible impact on the way libraries handle sound recordings. Guidelines for purchase of compact disc equipment are given. A comparison of compact discs and long-playing records is appended. (37 references) (EJS)

Reports the results of a survey of the Canadian integrated library systems market. The analysis includes comparisons of large versus microcomputer-based installations by type of library and across all libraries, foreign sales by Canadian vendors, and trends in the library systems market. (CLB)

This evaluation of the Leddy Library's experiment with separate approval plans and different vendors for political science, psychology, and economics discusses and compares their performance in profiling, discounts, delivery, response to changing needs, stock/warehousing to support shipping, communications, returns, notification slip service, and…

Discusses the variety of search command languages among online systems and provides suggestions for creating online information retrieval manuals using a database management system such as dBASE III PLUS. An online systems comparison chart is included for INFOGLOBE, INFOMART, DIALOG, QUICK LAW, and REUTERS TEXTLINE. (LRW)

Discusses CD-ROM with an emphasis on aspects that librarians need to know. The topics covered include the technology; installations and cost; advantages and disadvantages for libraries; products of interest to librarians; and selection issues. Other optical storage media are described and sources for further information are provided. (37…

Describes the operation of halon gas fire extinguishing systems, which have been installed in a number of libraries and archives across Canada where protection of special collections from water and mold damage resulting from operation of a standard water sprinkler system is paramount. The advantages and disadvantages of this type of system are…

Discusses some advantages of using workbooks in programs of basic instruction in academic libraries, and compares the use of workbooks with the effectiveness of audiovisual instruction, group instruction, lectures, and library tours to present the same material. Twenty references are listed. (Author/CHC)

Reports results of survey of Master of Library Science graduates on their career paths and perceptions of prestige of certain professional tasks and work settings. Sex differences in prestige rankings, work settings, and salary levels and prestige of tasks in first job and current job are noted. (7 references) (EJS)

Compares standards of training for library technicians in Australia and Canada. The discussion covers the involvement of national associations and advisory committees in decisions involving program standards; the use of distance education; and similarities and differences in entry requirements, diplomas awarded, and curriculum content. (22…

Describes the replication study undertaken by the British Columbia Union Catalogue (BCUC) to assess three online systems and their potential to meet the technical and economic needs of a number of libraries of all types and sizes in British Columbia. References are provided. (CHC)

Looks at the historical development of school librarian training in Canada and Great Britain; examines types of institutions with training programs and program content; compares the librarian's role in the two countries and isolates factors that determined those roles; and highlights recent difficulties, developments, and movement toward consensus…

Discussion of the cost effectiveness of searching online versus searching on CD-ROM highlights an example that compares costs for searching the ERIC database. Fixed costs and variable costs are described, labor costs are examined, implications for management are considered, and the effect of the number of databases and workstations is discussed.…

Describes a pilot project in Alberta designed to provide training for the staff of small rural school and public libraries through various distance delivery methods. Reported results include demographics of the rural librarian population; evaluation of courses offered; and comparison of delivery modes by student satisfaction, effectiveness, and…