Describes three projects implemented by the Southern Illinois University at Carbondale's library that are designed to empower the patron: (1) patron-initiated borrowing; (2) Interlibrary Loan Link on FirstSearch databases; and (3) implementation of Web-based interlibrary loan request forms. Explains the role of institutional support and…

Discusses electronic resources and collection development. Topics include how electronic resources are changing the world of access to information; how and why scholars and research libraries use electronic resources; digitization initiatives; knowledge and learning via the Web; archiving electronic resources; and building collections versus…

Discussion of research libraries focuses on resource sharing, information partnerships, collaborative collection building, and the relational library that relates to a user's needs and interests. Suggests the development of a global relational research library and discusses commercial Web-based relational services, electronic book sharing, and…