Local history/genealogy collections are found in approximately 60% of Ohio public libraries. These collections range from fully established large collections to those in the process of being organized. A survey was made of 140 of these public libraries to determine how the collections are utilized. Areas such as organization, management, policies…

Traces the evolution of the science fiction genre and its representation at the Library of Congress, including original paperbacks, hardcovers, television, film, and sound recordings. Highlights include science fiction "classics", the Library of Congress collection development policy, library programs, and preservation activities…

The increasing use of automated access, electronic materials, changes in communication, and philosophical disputes concerning the nature of archives have led to questions about current archival practice. Provides an overview of archival reference: current practice; reference, access, and outreach; research in use and users of archives; automation;…

Specialized library collections and services are often not geared toward Indian nationals in Canada. Public libraries should serve ethnic minorities by providing staff with language abilities and sharing materials through interlibrary loan. Appendixes include a geographic overview of Canadian public library acts, sample initiatives for…

Discussion of intellectual freedom, access to information, and public library administration focuses on three main areas: (1) access to minors; (2) access to library services by the poor, including library card registration policies that require a permanent address; and (3) charging fines and fees. Information equality and access to Internet are…

Argues that today's technology supplements traditional means of scholarship and communication. Discusses University of Denver's policy of technology implementation, information technology, interdisciplinarity, changing library environment, information usage and control, and costs. Concludes that future libraries will be defined not by technology…

The George A. Smathers Libraries of the University of Florida is currently undergoing a major renovation. Library West, the building that houses the humanities and social sciences collection, will be gutted and expanded. The collection will be moved to off-site storage and the staff will be relocated for a two-year period. The reality of these…

Academic libraries in Ohio were surveyed to determine the existence and content of training in customer service offered to library employees in the circulation and reference departments. Surveys were mailed to 127 libraries, and achieved a return rate of 68% (n=87). The survey contained questions about customer service training for both new and…

Very little has been written about Bible college libraries in the United States, even though they have been in existence since the early 1880s. This study presents the history of Cincinnati Bible College Library, tracing its development from its inception in 1928 over the years and showing how it has followed the mission statement of its parent…

The directors of 40 academic libraries in Virginia were surveyed to obtain information on their practices relating to public access, services, and fees in their libraries. Complete or partial responses were received from 21 libraries in private institutions and 14 from state-supported institutions. These responses indicate that all of the…

With the intention that Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds provide for the continual improvement and enhancement of all library and information services in Georgia, this five-year plan addresses the LSTA law by establishing major statewide priorities and supporting goals and activities/objectives that reflect the purposes and…

This paper discusses some of the factors that lead to the success of a health information library, including: (1) the mission statement; (2) practical matters such as location, equipment, furniture, and layout; (3) considerations in writing the procedure and policy manual; (4) confidentiality; (5) staff and volunteer training; (6) sources of…

Describes results of a survey of North Carolina selective depository libraries. Focuses on equipment, CD-ROM resources, Internet resources, and library policies. Results indicate that these depository libraries are making great strides in providing access to material in electronic format. Six tables show results. The questionnaire is included.…

Discusses ways that libraries can improve children's library services, including offering family activities; exposing children to books; creating a secure, comfortable environment; reinforcing and improving self-esteem; offering programs to improve reading skills; and developing imagination. Offers intellectual freedom policies for collection…

Discussion of cultural diversity in a rapidly changing population focuses on efforts at the San Jose Public Library to respond to cultural and demographic changes. Obstacles to responding are reviewed as well as positive responses, which include creation of policy statements, developing goals and objectives, administrative reorganization, and…