Describes the Intelligent Reference Information System (IRIS) at the University of Houston libraries which includes a local area network of CD-ROM databases and an expert system to recommend reference sources. Effects of IRIS on public services management, bibliographic instruction, and collection development are discussed; and network licensing,…

Provides a list of articles chosen from 12 journals to help school library media specialists develop an awareness of helpful literature from current periodicals. Topics covered include information service; instructional consulting; management, including collection development and public relations; and teaching, including library skills…

Introduction to the second part of a two-part series on collection development invites the reader to evaluate current collection development practice while considering changes, in light of recent innovations in library automation, resource availability, and format. Three major themes discussed in as many articles are briefly reviewed. (SD)

Discusses the need at the University of Southern Mississippi library to review resource allocations among serials, monographs and standing orders, and to select an allocation formula. The supply and demand formula used, its implementation, and results in departmental purchasing power are described. (four references) (EA)

Focuses on the selection and decision-making aspects of the Edelmen model of collection development. Reviews challenges facing library/information studies education and the place of collection development within that context. Considers implications for the library/information center of the rise of a new class of resources. Suggests that a more…

Presents results from a survey examining how academic libraries in the United States manage and promote their state document collections. A questionnaire focusing on general information, coordination of state documents, use of state documents, and electronic access to state documents was distributed to 350 libraries with 277 returned. (Author/AEF)

This outline of standards is designed for administrators and committees concerned with libraries for religious congregations. The standards were developed based on the understanding that the church or synagogue library is a special library that serves the institution in which it is housed and which is supplemental to other libraries in the area,…

This guide brings together all aspects of administration of a school media center in light of the new qualitative standards in "Information Power: Guidelines for School Library Media Programs." The book focuses on practical considerations within a single school as reflected in the new developments in organizing and administering the…

The introduction to this Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC) kit explains the Conspectus method, which was developed in 1980 by the Research Libraries Group (RLG) as a means of systematically and qualitatively evaluating large library collections. The discussion considers advantages and disadvantages of this tool, which evaluates past…

This master plan for Colorado academic libraries assesses current strengths and weaknesses of public and private academic libraries in the state and forecasts the role of academic libraries in support of higher education. The plan consists of a series of recommendations divided into six related and overlapping sections: access, collection…

In 1984, 17 academic libraries in Association for Higher Education of North Texas consortium used the Research Libraries Group Conspectus to gather data concerning current collecting patterns. Results of study suggest that Conspectus subject breakdown may be too specific for libraries smaller than Association of Research Libraries institutions.…

Describes the management principles used by the Environmental Protection Agency Headquarters Library to develop information services that support the agency's mission. The discussion outlines the steps involved in an action plan for making a special library a major focal point for organizational information services. (CLB)

Discusses areas of confusion concerning the role of public libraries that endanger the existence of public libraries. It is argued that the future of the public library depends on its responsiveness to the needs of the people that such libraries were created to serve, and suggestions for achieving this state are offered. (CLB)

Revised by the Reference and Adult Services Division of the American Library Association, these guidelines outline factors to consider in seeking input on material selection for public and academic libraries. Topics addressed include the purpose of the guidelines, user groups, collection development, communication with users, and outcomes. (EA)

Discusses the need to develop new models for collection development in academic libraries, based on experiences at the University of Arizona. Highlights include changes in the organizational chart; focusing on users' information goals and needs; integrative services; shared resources; interlibrary loans; digital technology; and funding. (LRW)