An automated retrieval system, adapted from a commercial warehouse application, has been installed at Georgia Southern University and has been well accepted by patrons and library personnel due to its reliability, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and responsiveness. (Contains 1 figure.)

Lafayette College is an undergraduate, private liberal arts and engineering school in Easton, Pennsylvania. In 2005, Lafayette rededicated its newly renovated library, complete with shared library/instructional technology facilities and a media studio. As originally envisioned, instructional technology (ITech) would have its own separate service…

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate the effects of the use of dual-screen monitors by library staff in an academic library. A self-administered survey questionnaire was used to gather information from library staff to examine the positive and negative effects of utilizing dual-screen monitors.

Describes how the library staff at Stetson University in central Florida coped with flooding. Offers recommendations on storage; carpeting; fans and humidifiers; emergency phone contacts; labeled keys; protective coverings for books; safe storage for "disaster" materials and equipment; removal of less valuable materials; sandbags;…

Explains how a new systems administrator can make good first impressions, become familiar with the library, and take charge. Describes ways of working effectively with equipment and human resources, and outlines types of library staff personalities the systems librarian may encounter. Discusses organizing the data gathered into action plans. (AEF)

Compares the operating costs of the CL Systems, Inc. Libs 100 automated circulation system with those of the manual system it replaced. The systems are described, costs defined, methods of data collection explained, and unit costs given. (Author)

As librarians use new computer equipment and related procedures, "ergonomics"--the least stressful orientation and use of the body in relation to the work it performs--becomes more important. Describes thirteen steps that employees can take to make their job experience more comfortable, safe, and efficient. (AEF)

Briefly discusses the development of two types of public libraries in Iran, i.e., those libraries under the administration of the Ministry of Islamic Culture and Guidance, and those administered by the Ministry of Education. The organization, staff, buildings and equipment, collections, and services of both types of libraries are described. (CLB)

Identifies four basic categories of assistance contributing to improvement of West African library service, depending on whether outside resources (international agencies, bilateral assistance programs, individual institutions, philanthropic foundations) are directed toward personnel development, collection development, library construction, or…

Compares results of a 1998 survey concerning university library support staff perceptions and opinions about technological change to results of a similar survey administered to the same population in 1988. Offers the evolving perceptions, opinions, and suggestions of these library personnel as a resource for better planning of library automation…

Examines the problem of book theft in libraries, including why people steal; titles and subjects most frequently stolen; budget impacts; collection redevelopment; and a list of 31 suggested prevention measures, including policy issues; security measures; facility design; automated system tracking capabilities; collection strategy; and…

Presents security procedures for protecting a library's computer system from potential threats by patrons or personnel, and describes how security can be breached. A sidebar identifies four areas of concern in security management: the hardware, the operating system, the network, and the user interface. A selected bibliography of sources on…

Provides suggestions that can reduce stress for library personnel. Discusses strategic planning tasks, coping with patrons, releasing hostile feelings, recognizing no-win situations, keeping in good health, observing/changing personal habits, alternating mental and physical jobs, creating a library policy, selecting and arranging computer…

Presents results of a questionnaire survey of 27 Association of Architectural Librarians members working for architectural and design firms. Library services, library collections, user access, space and equipment, library staff, and future possibilities are discussed, and a copy of the survey is appended. (LRW)

Presents a tongue-in-cheek analysis of how to improve young adult services in libraries. Highlights include funding; providing technology that includes Internet access; comfortable furniture; food; longer evening hours; research needs; staff attitudes; job and volunteer service opportunities; restrictive rules and fees; and better books and media.…