Discusses issues that school librarians need to consider when updating and automating their libraries based on examples of experiences in several high schools. Topics addressed include planning; problems; needs assessment; software compatibility and selection; CD-ROMs; and training needs. (LRW)

This case study describes a low-budget interactive videodisc project that was developed for the Small Business Administration. Highlights include users' needs for easy access to information; system characteristics, including a touch screen; hardware; authoring system; and transfer of a slide show to videotape. (LRW)

Discusses the benefits of establishing computer centers in early childhood classrooms to enhance cognitive learning, develop self-esteem, and stimulate divergent thinking. Outlines steps necessary for setting up a classroom computer center, such as defining procedures and rules and choosing appropriate activities and software. Suggests ways to…

Discussion of recruiting and hiring minorities in academic libraries focuses on steps needed for the retention of these minorities. Highlights include literature search strategies; mentoring systems; networking within and outside the organization; and supervision, including immediate feedback. (Contains 20 references.) (LRW)

Discussion of the role and use of consultants in libraries focuses on a case study of the National Library of Switzerland. Topics addressed include selection criteria for hiring a consultant; the importance of trust; and the consultant's power to influence decision making, from the client's and the consultant's perspectives. (Contains four…

Describes one teacher's attempt to use storybooks to help her students accept a special needs student in her classroom. Notes that some children's books, however, give the message that diversity makes children different and they must be treated differently. Suggests teachers carefully assess themes in children's literature, as well as their own…

Presents an annotated bibliography of 88 videos released between 1990 and 1994 designed to help children and young adults become more knowledgeable about the transmission and prevention of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) and HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). Order information and grade levels are given to help school library selectors…

Examines reading habits of Estonians with studies dating back to the 1960s and discusses the impact of the printed word on culture. Focuses on changes since the Estonian's transition to the market economy: (1) reading has become casual and less frequent; (2) literary preferences have shifted; and (3) smaller home libraries have increased the need…

Discusses the opportunity to unite readers of all ages by encouraging reading and discussing books on a given topic. Outlines possible topics and gives book-starter suggestions that are likely to spark broad interest such as the 1940s, World War II, or Growing Up. Suggests preparations that may be made for those who are unaccustomed to book…

A survey examined the reading interests and availability of relevant reading materials for 25 bilingual fifth-grade students in a rural southwestern school. Area residents were primarily descendants of early Hispanic settlers. Discusses the importance of targeting student reading interests and making materials of interest available in classrooms…

The job-seeking experiences of 62 individuals seeking their first higher education position in special education were assessed. Results revealed that each subject applied for about six positions. Most respondents expressed several dissatisfactions with the search and interview processes. Difficulties communicating with search committee members and…

Describes zines (self-published magazines); suggests librarians should regard zines as historical sources of culture and include them in materials selection. Discusses the role of technology in publication and distribution; the audience; cataloging problems; free speech; and zines on the Internet. Sidebars provide information on selected zines and…

Explains how the Arlington Independent School District (Texas) complied with the mandates of the Local Government Records Act. Topics include evaluation and needs, software selection, inventory and retention schedules, managing forms and records, standardized identification systems, finding specific records, costs and destroying obsolete records.…

The Rasch model was applied to selection of items for an Arabic version of the Otis-Lennon Mental Ability Test using a sample of 599 male and female Kuwaiti secondary school and university students. Results indicated that the test is suitable for the range of ability intended to be measured. (SLD)

Describes a university-level English-as-a-Second-Language program that includes integration of text and film that bolsters the extensive reading process. Criteria for the selection of resource materials included a challenging vocabulary, an interesting plot, compatibility of film and text version, and universal themes. Integrating books and films…