Considers the concept of library reference management and traditional reference functions in terms of aggrandizement, highlighting staff evaluation, bibliographic instruction, online searching, interlibrary loan, and the vertical file. Three references are listed. (EJS)

Argues that recent decisions to outsource library collection development are not isolated incidents but attempts to privatize whole core services and even management of libraries. Examines three misconceptions about the private sector: that it can do it better and cheaper, that accountability to the marketplace is more effective than government,…

Reviews trends in catalog and technical service departments in response to information needs of library patrons, administrations of catalog and technical services departments, and professional standards that no longer meet patron needs. Discusses patron search patterns; the role of catalogers; and results of sharing cataloging records, downsizing,…