Discussion of the teaching role of the academic librarian focuses primarily on reference librarianship. The interaction between patron and librarian and the necessity for the librarian to teach are noted. Eighteen references are provided. (EJS)

Economic pressures on the information industry and on libraries are significantly affecting the nature of services and the organization of work within libraries. These effects are illustrated by three phenomena: emphasis on productivity in libraries, marketing of online database searches through libraries, and the repackaging of library services…

Presents the development of the Patterson Area Community Television project (PACT), a multilevel governmental funded program organized by the Patterson Public Library. Begun as a communications experiment, the project makes cable television available as a community information service for use by local government, business, community agencies, and…

Utilization of telecommunications and computer technology to increase access to information is identified as a primary goal for public libraries. To further service in the future, libraries should consider database services, online access to library resources, online community conferencing, community databases, network resource sharing,…

Reviews research findings on the effects of user fees in online searching, and concludes that charging does discourage use of computerized retrieval systems. It is recommended that alternatives to direct user fees be sought whenever possible. (SW)

Presents the findings of a library survey, part of the Public Library I&R (Information and Referral) Project, to assess the nature and extent of I&R services. Discussed are simple and complex information-giving, constructing a public resource file, and a comparison model of high and low profile services. (SW)

Describes a study that investigated the use of electronic book devices by college students, professors, and librarians. Topics include the use of personal digital assistants (PDAs); challenges for libraries, including policies for PDAs; technological problems with PDAs; and student attitudes. (LRW)

Describes a program at the State University of New York College of Agriculture and Technology at Morrisville (SUNY-Morrisville) developed with IBM called ThinkPad University that integrates computers into the teaching and learning environment. Explains a partnership with Raytheon that provides wireless connectivity; and discusses changes in…

This study examined the influence of (1) the setting of the reference interview on the interaction and (2) accuracy and the librarian's behavior on the success of the reference interview. Tables display correlations between the interpersonal, interviewing and listening, and searching skills of the librarian with the patron's willingness to return…

Examines libraries' policies of keeping patron records private and confidential. Addresses the idea that libraries use their automated systems to retain and use patron data to develop and improve library services. Describes uses of patron data that can help libraries develop targeted services to users to better meet their information needs. (JMV)

The library community will be faced with the challenge of redefining services to accommodate the growing population of older adults. These services should take into consideration factors such as level of education, ethnicity, stage in life and mobility while incorporating technology and lifelong learning into creative programs. (JKP)

Discusses the importance of cataloging to library service and addresses some of the debilitating effects that downsizing or elimination of cataloging departments, combined with outsourcing, and the consequent decline in bibliographic integrity, have on library service. Includes a sidebar on outsourcing. (JKP)

Discusses the author event in libraries and the efforts Baker and Taylor has made to bridge the communication gap between publishers and libraries and to encourage author publicity events. Argues that events are good business for publishers, writers, and libraries; and outlines aspects libraries must consider in organizing such an event. (EA)

Provides an overview of marketing efforts of the Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. Examples of a marketing plan that stresses fostering relationships with the community are described, including staff training in customer service, a cultural festival, and services to the business community. A sidebar offers marketing tips for…

Discusses information overload and society's and libraries' responses to technology. Considers eight values that libraries should focus on and how they relate to technology in libraries: democracy, stewardship, service, intellectual freedom, privacy, rationalism, equity of access, and building harmony and balance. (LRW)