Examines an effective response to library or archive theft and vandalism of valuable materials: the restricted access reading room. Discusses the need for an alert staff, user identification, restriction of carry-in items, electronic surveillance, record keeping, limits to quantities of collection materials, exiting procedure, photocopying, theft…

Discusses philosophical issues and human elements in reference desk scheduling for public and academic libraries, highlighting institutionalization of a desk scheduling policy, the relationship between scheduler and schedulee (impartiality, consistency, flexibility, collegiality, diplomacy, dedication to reference service), and conflict management…

The creation of rules and procedures for cataloging archival collections was made difficult because of the nature of archives and manuscript collections and the challenge of describing them. Discusses definitions and principles; accessioning and arrangement; inventories, the core descriptive finding aid; integrated descriptive programs; and…

Examines issues in electronic records management from an archival perspective and illustrates points by referring to policy development at the Australian Archives. Describes the Australian Archives; outlines its strategy for managing electronic records; discusses policy response; preservation of format versus virtual records; and records creation,…

Discusses censorship of the arts and humanities in libraries. Highlights include statistics regarding school and school library challenges; reactions to controversial art in public places; Madonna's book "Sex" and the resulting protests; and what librarians can do, including materials selection policies. (LRW)

Discusses problems with patron Internet access in academic libraries and describes a study conducted at Northwestern University (Illinois) that used Internet tracking software to assess user Internet behavior. Topics include Internet use policies; pornography; and loss of control over library services and information content that is provided. (LRW)

Identifies some of the distinguishing characteristics of business information and examines their impact on reference transactions. Topics include characteristics of business patrons; question negotiation; dealing with patrons' expectations; helping patrons devise a search strategy; understanding search results; requisite skills for business…

Discusses the need for a value-based reference policy and suggests one based on John Rawls' system in "A Theory of Justice" that provides equitable service to all members of an academic community while permitting the librarian to uphold the ideal of freedom of access to information. (11 references) (LRW)

Discusses the benefits of creating a collegial environment for library reference staff, highlighting application of the "Golden Rule," supervisor's role, policies and procedures, barriers to success (lack of communication, competitiveness, conflict, dictatorial supervisors, envy, burnout, lack of reward), collegial education and…

Considers ethical issues faced by special libraries concerning access to information and the needs of clients, the organization, and society. Topics discussed include collection development policies; physical access; user fees; organizational loyalty versus intellectual freedom; social responsibility; and personal values. (Contains 10 references.)…

The increasing use of automated access, electronic materials, changes in communication, and philosophical disputes concerning the nature of archives have led to questions about current archival practice. Provides an overview of archival reference: current practice; reference, access, and outreach; research in use and users of archives; automation;…

Argues that today's technology supplements traditional means of scholarship and communication. Discusses University of Denver's policy of technology implementation, information technology, interdisciplinarity, changing library environment, information usage and control, and costs. Concludes that future libraries will be defined not by technology…

Presents seven articles that discuss reference librarians and technical services librarians; evaluating online public access catalogs; bibliographic instruction and CD-ROMs; interactive multimedia and electronic media in academic libraries; open versus closed stacks for academic library periodical collections; policies and procedures manuals as…