Arguing that library and information needs should be met at the national, rather than at the local level, this report analyzes ways to meet these needs with special reference to the role of national libraries. The first two chapters highlight such library and information concerns as: (1) collection and preservation of documents of national…

A simplified account of an extensive library automation and networking project that the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation initiated and funded in the Czech and Slovak republics is provided in this paper. The proposal to establish "The Czech and Slovak Library Information Network" (CASLIN) commenced in January 1993. Storage, document…

Argues that without reform and adaptation to contemporary technology, paper libraries will become little more than book museums. Outlines four major problems with contemporary library practice. Discusses benefits of database-management systems for organization of libraries' paper resources. Lists requirements libraries should demand of any new…

The following information is provided in this annual report: names and positions of 1996 Board of Trustees members, Library of Michigan Foundation 1996 Board of Directors, legislative council, alternate members, and Library of Michigan staff; the library mission; a list of 10 major administrative tasks conducted in 1996; service and technological…

In the age of ever-growing technological advancements library media centers have become places of enormous discovery and adventure. But are teachers and administrators aware of all the resources available through the school library media centers? Do they know the importance that library media specialists play in the school curriculum planning?…

Discusses 50 years' worth of development of librarianship in Pakistan and analyzes the policies and plans made. Reviews the role of library schools and their curriculum in the development of the profession and examines the impact of the information revolution, as well as new dimensions in librarianship. Provides a timeline of plans and…

Reviews change strategies implemented by Harvard College Library (Massachusetts) in response to environmental changes and increased technological developments. The library increased productivity and innovation, and improved the work environment through staff and organizational development. (JMV)

Discusses the impact of home use of electronic information sources, such as the Internet, on traditional library services. Suggests that librarians should devote themselves to how people seek, organize, and consume information. Describes 21st century strategies to help libraries use traditional information services combined with computer…

Describes factors behind a 1993 proposal at Harvard College (Massachusetts) to renovate its undergraduate library to a gateway library to change from print to digital information. Summarizes findings from a national conference sponsored by Harvard College Library and based on a position paper entitled "Gateways to Knowledge: A New Direction…

Discusses the future of libraries' extended access and services. Highlights include disposing myths and projections for the future, problems and promises of new technologies, increasing public and academic library funding, and planning for extended libraries. (AEF)

Third World libraries, as a rule, receive information technology, technical assistance, and training as part of international development projects. Library improvements and their intended objective, information transfer, are more effective and lasting if key administrative and policy issues are addressed by the projects. Critical success factors…

Discusses the planning process for migrating to a new library media center automation system, including identification of the need to migrate, solicitation of stakeholder support, enumeration of required attributes of a new system, writing the Request for Proposal (RFP), and maximizing vendor demonstrations. (MES)

Describes the strategic planning process for the merger between the libraries of Penn State University's Harrisburg and Schuykill campuses. Examines the merger's potential impact on library services and resources. Discusses possible solutions to meeting the information needs of the merged institutions. (Author/AEF)

Academic libraries must integrate technology and traditional library service. Online catalogs, high-tech campus information networks, and accelerated resource sharing present opportunities for building comprehensive information centers. However, the interiors of most existing libraries were not designed to accommodate extensive high-tech equipment…

This case study of the Kossuth Lajos Tudomanyeyetem, an academic library in Debrecen (Hungary), conducted in May 1992, describes its functioning and needs. Information gathered through a series of interviews, tours, library reports, and a review of relevant literature forms the basis for the case study. An overview of the library in its historical…