Explores the future of reference librarianship within the context of the enabling technologies that will chart library development in the 21st century. The article types libraries into categories of "traditional,""automated,""hybrid," and "digital." The typology delineates shifts in human/machine…

Discusses implications for restructuring library reference services suggested by information needs and information-seeking behavior of scientists. Highlights include scientific and informal communication, accessibility and creativity, and a holistic approach to user-centered services. (AEF)

Describes the general situation of information services in rural public libraries in the context of the changing nature of rural America. Highlights include the development of rural communities and libraries; public expectations and information needs; barriers to information access; and examples of successful rural reference services. (Contains 31…

Reviews two projects incorporating document delivery into ready reference and acquisitions and provides an analysis of four major document-delivery vendors, as part of a research project funded by the University of Montana (Missoula) Faculty Grant Program and the Mansfield Library. Findings support integration of document delivery within a…

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.)…

Addresses issues related to implementing and teaching Mead Data Central's (MDC) Lexis and Nexis services in an undergraduate academic library. Topics include telecommunications, access, and equipment; printing; collection development; instructional issues, including staff training; structure of the database; publications and instructional…

Describes the restructuring of a traditional Interlibrary Loan Department at the Auraria Library, University of Colorado at Denver, into Information Delivery/Interlibrary Loan (ID/ILL) and its move to Collection Development Services. Discusses cost-effectiveness of ownership versus access; the collection philosophy; and components of the ID/ILL…

Discussion of the development of the discourse of diversity highlights a report from the Librarian's Association of the University of California that addressed cultural diversity in academic libraries. Topics discussed include developing culturally diverse collections; access; reference services; bibliographic instruction; and recruitment,…

Libraries need to take a new approach to community relations and marketing to respond to demographic changes and users who need new competencies to compete in the job market. Highlights include improving access; collection development; programs and services; staff development and recruitment; funding; and evaluation of effectiveness of services.…