This report is a sequel to the 2005 "Perceptions of Libraries and Information Resources." This new report provides updated information and new insights into information consumers and their online habits, preferences, and perceptions. Particular attention was paid to how the current economic downturn has affected the information-seeking behaviors…

Presents a history of library cooperation and technological advancement in North Carolina libraries from the Depression years to the early 1990s. Discusses early library cooperation and development of the North Carolina Information Network (NCIN). Describes the seven task forces on: Bibliographic Database, Document Delivery, Funding, Public…

The final report of the Illinois General Assembly Task Force on Library Finance is presented. An initiative was recommended to provide enhanced opportunities for public access to electronic information by improving technology in libraries. The task force recommended an increase in fees to provide the necessary funding for this initiative. (AEF)

Examines the collective agreements of Canadian public and academic libraries to determine the nature and frequency of technological change clauses. Findings indicate that overall, Canadian librarians have not been able to use the collective bargaining process as a means to claim a proactive voice in the introduction and integration of technology…

Addresses the new roles and responsibilities for public library support staff in the constantly changing environment of the digital age. Flexibility, initiative, ability to adapt to a changing environment, along with the technical knowledge and expertise are all important attributes of successful candidates for positions. (AEF)

With comments from a variety of sources, this book presents fictional scenarios intended to get librarians thinking about possibilities. The book offers eight new future scenarios that explore such developments as virtual reality, robots, time travel, biotechnology, computer viruses, security, and more--all within the context of the public…

The role of the public library has changed with the advent of the Internet and digital technology. In addition to its traditional role as a storehouse of information, the role of the public library now encompasses a range of duties such as a resource learning center, a community center, and a business liaison. The opportunities for service have…

Discussion of the role of public libraries in socioeconomic development focuses on an evaluation of the existing library system in Istanbul (Turkey) and proposes a plan for its balanced development with respect to population distribution and technological advances. Highlights include building design, library automation, and financial…

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)

Discusses information development in Portugal since the early 1980s. Topics include public libraries; the national bibliographic database; training; software; access to online databases; CD-ROMs; and Portuguese participation in information projects of the European Community. (AEF)

A project established a Technology Assisted Learning Center (TALC) at the New Britain (Connecticut) Public Library. Software for computer-assisted instruction was purchased in the following areas: drill and practice, educational games, simulation, demonstration, tutorial, and problem solving. Problems were encountered with regard to interactive…

To meet the challenges of societal change, technological development, and economic retrenchment, libraries must develop problem-solving strategies such as marketing which can help libraries serve their clients more effectively. Marketing components are presented in the context of a customer orientation. (AEF)

Investigates what has changed in librarianship in the last decade, challenges the profession has faced, and positions library professionals should take in the rapidly evolving technological environment. Provides information on the demands of the profession, changes library schools have made, and the future outlook. (AEF)

California's public libraries face a decade of challenges, a decade in which the majority of Californians will become regular and adept users of electronic information resources, the majority of Californians will have many and varied ethnic backgrounds, a growing proportion of young people will live in homes where English is not the primary…

This report provides a step-by-step look at defining, planning, implementing, operating, and supporting Internet services for library patrons. Experts from the Cambridge (Massachusetts) Public Library share their experiences pioneering a high-speed, graphical Internet service that supports the full range of multimedia materials available across…