Major issues and problems that are plaguing the American Library Association are discussed. (SJ)

Reviews problems for users created by the complexities of past practices for filing catalog cards, and describes some features of the new, more user-oriented ALA filing rules. (LLS)

The Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC) of ARL, which acts as a clearinghouse for current operating practices in libraries, is now open to everyone. Its flyers and kits reporting results of surveys show how libraries solve budget and other management problems. (JPF)

Discusses problems and costs involved in the use of the Library of Congress List of Subject Headings (LCSH) and speculates on how these problems can be minimized once the traditional card catalog is replaced with computer technology. (LLS)

The division of library services into technical service and public service is outmoded; a centralized processing unit and/or the redevelopment of professional librarianship are offered as more effective alternatives. (MBR)

Discusses rare books in library collections and problems that are encountered with theft and/or preservation. Highlights include the effects of online auctions on the Internet; costs of replacing lost materials; and libraries that keep valuable books in the circulating collection, stamping them and subjecting them to use that devalues them. (LRW)

The certification process, despite its problems and constraints, is still the best means to achieve the goal of having competent and committed personnel in the school. Improved standards for certification are necessary if future generations are to benefit from the service the talented and well-trained school media specialist can provide. (VT)

This essay on library terminology and jargon highlights the names of files encountered in one library, expressions used during presentations at the most recent American Library Association Annual Conference, job titles, journal abstracts, and other genera of double-talk that can profitably be used to reduce comprehension. Twelve references are…

Examines the potential benefits and problems for libraries using a fully automated short record circulation system, one that consists of a number designating the item, enough bibliographic information to identify it, information on its location, and information on the borrower. (FM)

Discusses the history of the reference reform movement that began with an article that described what was wrong with reference. Highlights include the use of technology; remote access; tiered service; appointment-based reference service; alternative staffing patterns; and providing adequate resources to enhance reference service. (LRW)

An adult librarian presents a commentary on the need for farseeing and painstaking site selection in urban locations. Contributing to the Ortega Branch Library's problems are its central location and extended hours of operation, the scheduling of adjacent facilities, structure and personality of the neighborhood, and the lack of police…

Covers some general developments in circulation technology, vendor and network approaches to circulation, problem areas, and some hints on system procurement. (Author)

The trend toward use of online bibliographic systems in libraries sets the stage for the discussion of standardized entry format and authority control in information input if maximum usefulness now and in the future is to be achieved. (MBR)

Reviews and compares three types of microfilm--silver halide, diazo, and vesicular. Storage and handing requirements for permanent collections are discussed, and some suggestions are offered to solve problems caused by the proliferation of nonsilver films in libraries. (MBR)

This essay on problems associated with library reference service and personnel discusses the pros and cons of four approaches designed to improve staff utilization and quality of performance--hiring additional staff, automation, alternative staffing arrangements, and planning and rearrangement of priorities. Fourteen sources are given. (EJS)