Fewer employees, shorter hours, diminished collection budgets, reduced programs and services--all at a time of record library usage. In this book, library expert Carol Smallwood demonstrates that despite the obvious downsides, the necessity of doing business differently can be positive, leading to partnering, sharing, and innovating. This…

This paper discusses the development of information technology (IT) literacy among library staff at the University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa). The first section describes the networked environment in South Africa. The second section summarizes the IT background of library staff and perceptions of IT literacy among staff. The third section…

Discusses reasons for establishing in-house training programs with the installation of library automation systems. Training issues discussed include who should provide training; who should receive training; program objectives; program content; training methods; documentation; and future training requirements. A program provided at the National…

Proposes a new transitional budget model to help make libraries adept at and comfortable with change during the transition to an increasingly electronic knowledge environment, emphasizing staff education and training, new service opportunities, user responsiveness, teamwork, fiscal empowerment, and more effective management systems. (Contains nine…

Discussion of Internet software and its use in libraries focuses on a software evaluation program at the undergraduate library at Southern Illinois University. Highlights include staff training for information technology, availability and selection of shareware and freeware, and an evaluation form for Internet software. (LRW)

"Intranets"--web sites written and used internally by organizations--are being developed as a means of enhancing communication, improving productivity, and reducing costs. The University Library at the University of Nebraska at Omaha is in the early stages of developing an Intranet. Considerations that led the library to establish an…

This report of the Virtual Library Planning Committee (VLPC) is intending to serve as a blueprint for the University of South Florida (USF) Libraries as it shifts from print to digital formats in its evolution into a "Virtual Library". A comprehensive planning process is essential for the USF Libraries to make optimum use of technology,…

Libraries' dependence on computers can lead to frustrations for patrons and staff during downtime caused by computer system failures. Advice for reducing the number of crashes is provided, focusing on improved training for systems staff, better management of library systems, and the development of computer systems using quality components which…

A survey of high-tech (n=289) and non-high-tech (n=219) school library media centers revealed that most high-tech schools (38%) are in the South and that most (35%) are high schools. Analyzes patterns in funding, types of technology, automated management, expenditures and collections, staffing and salaries, participation in staff development…

Suggests ways to develop staff training programs for library automation projects. Tips fall into five concept areas: trainers, trainees, program content and design, training environment and schedule, and followup. It is noted that the guide is appropriate for libraries automating for the first time or for those making changes to established…

Describes the functions of the Information Technology Section at Cornell University's (New York) Mann Library: (1) maintains and supports the library computer system; (2) develops software; (3) trains staff; (4) enables staff to make technical suggestions; (5) communicates library requirements to campus technical support unit; and (6) advises…

This library technology plan from Mission College in California establishes the goals, objectives, strategies, and implementation plans of the library in developing and maintaining its technical capabilities and electronic resources. The goals are organized into four categories: information resources, instructional resources, infrastructure, and…

Discusses the effects of rapid development and deployment of information processing technology and the aging of the workforce on library technical services. Problems that can result are considered, and ergonomic solutions, training, change management, and the avoidance of stereotypes are advocated. (Contains nine references.) (EAM)

Describes the Nassau School Library System and the role it plays in enabling librarians at 328 member libraries in Nassau County, New York, to become instructional leaders and key members of technology and curriculum planning teams. Highlights include how the change process was started, examples of practical accomplishments, promotion of library…

A partnership between Wayne State College, Wayne (Nebraska) community schools, and the local chamber of commerce produced fiber-optic telecommunications, Internet access, technology integration, automated libraries, computer networking, and a technology curriculum. The article describes project design, implementation, and growth, as well as…