Defines and describes formal cooperative library reference services and discusses the major variables that produce differences in cooperative reference networks: size, composition, funding, services, delivery mechanisms, control methods, and resources. (Author/LLS)

Discusses the positive and negative aspects, as well as future possibilities, for transmitting interlibrary loan materials via telefacsimile. (CWM)

Addresses the question of whether eight public libraries can work together to serve a common area. The problem, objectives, personnel, programs, materials, and training involved in setting up shared staffing to provide regional service to Spanish-speaking residents are described. (VT)

Suggests that the divisions and animosities of the library community could be resolved through proper emphasis on access to information and resource sharing. Urban versus rural library, school versus public library, trustee versus librarian, and issues of professionalism are examined. (RAA)

Provides background on automation of library catalogs. Arguments are presented in favor of standards for online catalogs, and the possibility that inconsistent record access may result in confusion for library patrons is discussed. (MES)

Reviews major library issues and events of 1988, including: (1) the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Library Awareness Program; (2) cooperation with USSR libraries; (3) library finance; (4) preservation; and (5) special programing. News about a number of prominent library professionals is included in a sidebar. (MES)

A small academic library's experience in a regional intertype library network had positive effects on interlibrary loan procedures and improved and promoted cooperation at the local level. The regional network relieves the burden on large research libraries and enables libraries with inadequate resources to provide better service to patrons.…

Discusses the concept of multitype library networks, noting objectives and advantages for both academic and public libraries. System structure and user threats are noted in relation to informal cooperation and formalization. Twelve references are cited. (EJS)

Provides brief description of recent situation of university libraries in Latin America and Caribbean, noting importance of education, characteristics of universities, and library services in supporting functions of universities. University library systems established in countries including Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, and Cuba are…

Idaho State University Library's experience shows how smaller libraries with limited resources can provide broad library services to distance faculty and students through the Internet, electronic information systems, and cooperation with other libraries. (Comments by Foster and Gaines are provided.) (SK)

Provides an account of the activities of the Library Council of Papua New Guinea from its inception in 1975 to 1990. Highlights include background on the council, meetings of the council and membership, minutes and reports of ad hoc committees, work undertaken by the council, reports on projects, and commentaries on the council. (19 references)…

Discusses the use of OCLC to improve library service in Illinois and emphasizes library cooperation through LVIS (Libraries Very Interested in Sharing) and Group Access Capability (GAC) groups. Topics include interlibrary loan; union lists; resource sharing agreements; and the role of the Illinois State Library. (LRW)

Describes genesis of New York Metropolitan Reference and Research Library Agency (METRO) and the interlibrary services it offers. Laws and grants, cooperative acquisitions, continuing education for library staff, and suggestions for planning cooperatives (include all types of libraries, develop effective patterns of communication, develop shared…

The aim of this article is to look briefly at the constituent parts of the British library scene and, where possible, to indicate directions that the profession is likely to follow. (Author)

The fierce pride of the Welsh in their own land and culture is the foundation stone on which their National Library has been built. (Author)