The vice president of Gaylord Information Systems, a vendor of library products, reminisces about several items of library equipment and their evolution, including the card catalog, circulation products, and bookbinder's supplies. The common purpose of library products of the past and present--to help librarians help people find and use…

Bookmobiles are one of the largest, costliest, and most complicated tools and deserve thorough development to provide reliable and trustworthy service to the public. (AB)

The ALA Ad Hoc Committee on Flood-damaged Libraries presents preliminary damage estimates. (1 reference) (SJ)

This annual report on library facilities and furnishings includes articles on: (1) designing libraries that are both handsome and functional; (2) functional use of color and light in library interior design; (3) creating user-friendly libraries; and (4) the seven deadly sins of architects. An eight-page section of photographs is included. (MES)

Demonstrates factors involved in moving a university library to a new location, based on experiences at the University of Kentucky. Some logistics of a move include the following: the collection has to be measured and its destination determined; a book that is relabeled should be handled only five times; book carts must avoid gridlock; getting it…

Renovation and construction projects in 18 public and academic libraries across the United States are showcased, with 23 photographs illustrating library interiors and exteriors. Discussion centers on architecture, costs, technology infrastructure and equipment, preservation of old facilities, furniture, and library functions. (AEF)

Discussion of problems and mistakes made in library facility planning highlights overemphasis of dramatic architectural elements; communications between architects and librarians; who is in charge of planning process; lighting (effect of library shelving, appropriate location of light switches); setting a schedule; furniture and equipment; and the…

Three articles focus on preservation of library materials: profile of Bonnie Jo Cullison, book conservationist at Newberry Library (Chicago, Illinois); planning for preservation (administration, conservation training, microreproduction, library binding, environmental control, research and development, educating public); preservation guide for…

A series of articles reviews current trends in library furniture, including designs to accommodate computer equipment and workstations, children's furniture, shelving, and display aids. Design requirements and evaluation criteria are discussed, and a directory of furniture suppliers is provided. (CLB)

Focuses on selecting appropriate furnishings, floorings, and surfaces for a new library. Discusses appropriate color schemes; carpeting; protecting wood surfaces with polyurethane, user-friendly furniture, and flexible staff workstations. (AEF)