This discussion of microcomputers notes applications in libraries; the impact of microcomputers in the home, library, or office; and ways to combat static electricity in the work area. (EJS)

Employees are valuable. The cost of hiring, training, and retaining staff--not just librarians, but all staff--generally makes up the largest part of a library's budget. Since library support staff usually comprise 60-80 percent of the work force, it makes perfect fiscal sense to motivate this segment of employees to stay. There is an even more…

Reports results of a survey of 800 library staff members on aspects of library work that they find stressful. The findings include sources of satisfaction and stress for all participants, and sources of stress specific to public services librarians, technical services librarians, and support staff members. (CLB)

Notes that the literature shows female intensive professions are usually devalued in terms of pay, status, career opportunities, and working conditions. It is argued that gender equity in librarianship should focus on library specialties, such as children's librarianship and cataloging, that are more likely to employ women than the profession as a…

Reports on problems involved in staff workspace design--impact of environment on behavior, productivity, and job satisfaction--and relates issues to library workplace (level of staff, type and size of library). Herzberg Theory, Hawthorne Effect, and findings of Buffalo Organization for Social and Technological Innovation are highlighted. (15…

Discussion of the effect on the workforce of the application of electronic data processing technologies to information handling activities highlights task specialization; white collar alienation; feelings of powerlessness, meaninglessness, and normlessness in workers; the chronology of automation; and experimentation and communication. Nineteen…

Discusses aspects of microcomputer operation that are associated with the human operator and the interface between human and machine or workplace. Work productivity, furniture design (desks, seating), keyboards (shape, layout, and "feel" of keys), and video display terminal screens and lighting are noted. (EJS)

Results of a survey of 15 directors of large libraries revealed a consensus that despite their adversarial roles and the time and effort it takes to make the relationship work, unions are worth the trouble. Highlights include who runs the library, rewarding mediocrity, salaries, team versus individual, race, negotiating roles, and changes needed.…