This report is intended to aid the library at Stanford University in determining: (1) How it should respond to faculty and student need to know about computer-based information systems; (2) If the library has a role in supporting awareness of, and access to information about computerized files on campus; and (3) If the library has a role in…

Discusses four basic aspects of data reference work: 1) How files are created as related to the main sources for acquisition of data files; 2) What publications help to identify available data files; 3) What variables appear in which data files; 4) What information about the physical medium of file storage is needed to use the file on a computer.…

Discusses the introduction of computers and appropriate software (computer-assisted instruction, computer games, open-ended programs) into the public library children's room. Computer literacy as a public library goal, specific objectives of a program at Oakville Public Library (Ontario), and library role in the information age are highlighted.…

Examines the key differences between the information industry and public libraries and describes the computerized Community Information Project of San Mateo County, California. (PF)

Different views on the future of research libraries are presented in this collection of papers from persons affiliated with the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany. Joseph Z. Nitecki (library director) discusses the effect of social change on library missions, operations, and procedures. Warren F. Ilchman (vice president for research and…

The Communications Director of the American Library Association (ALA) offers five reasons librarians should claim literacy as their top professional mission: the "America Reads Challenge" to ensure that all 8-year-olds can read by the year 2000; the ALA's experience in literacy programs; the issue's universality; the success of past…

This videotape discusses how technology is rapidly changing the roles of information providers. It is important that information professionals continue to provide good customer service while helping the public feel comfortable with new technology. This videotape covers issues common in libraries today: making time for adequate staff training;…

The practice of using a social network to establish and enhance relationships based on some common ground--shared interests, related skills, or a common geographic location--is as old as human societies, but social networking has flourished due to the ease of connecting on the Web. This OCLC membership report explores this web of social…

Papers on information technology, which were presented at the 1983 International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) conference, include: (1) "Automation's Impact on (Information) Users" by Arja-Riitta Haarala (Finland); (2) "Economics and Politics of Information Technology: Some Trends in Its Application to Information for…

The authors of this second volume provide a composite contribution to a broader understanding of some of the major topics affecting libraries and their operation today. These contributions are in keeping with the aim of the series of providing scholarly reviews of specific topics related to the rapidly changing and advancing field of…

Libraries should resist the temptation to relinquish to computing centers the burden of looking after the university's digital data record resources for a growing volume of intellectually important material will arrive at the university on digital data tapes. If the user must arrange for access to this material outside the library, he will be…

Discusses the basic functions of library systems and their knowledge transfer role in modern societies. Four types of library systems that could arise from new technologies are identified: polymedia, electronic, digital, and virtual. Each of these systems is described, their distinguishing features identified, and their implications discussed.…

The information technology revolution is affecting schools on a broader basis than just libraries. Teachers, administrators, and educational technology specialists are all espousing expanded roles to address the new opportunities, with the result that responsibilities are beginning to overlap and roles are becoming blurred. The use of increasingly…

Speeches, papers and summaries of group discussions from Australia's 1981 national seminar on library services for the visually, mentally and physically impaired are presented. The opening speeches are followed by papers on achievement and progress in library services for the handicapped since 1978 (the date of the first national seminar) (W. D.…

Six presentations at joint conference of two Canadian professional associations include two theme speeches (Denis Varloot, Douglas Foskett); synthesis of three theme presentations (Basil Stuart-Stubbs); addresses by current and incoming presidents of Canadian Library Association (CLA) (Beth Miller, Ken Jensen); and a review of CLA services to…