This SPEC (Systems and Procedures Exchange Center) Kit is based on a survey of Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member libraries in June 2000. The goal of the survey was to identify issues to be addressed and actions ARL might take to advance the preservation goals of the members. The survey was designed to gather data on recent changes,…

This review of research on minority (Afro-American, American Indian, Asian American, Mexican American) librarianship provides overview of early developments, civil rights era and contemporary developments, and professional organizations. A state-of-the-art review by ethnic group notes purpose, methodology, and conclusions of selected research in…

National, state and local standards in existence for institutions for mentally retarded, mental health patients, and youthful and adult offenders are considered. Standards used by state library agencies in institutional library planning, standardization of standards, and positive and negative aspects of current standards are discussed. A 47-item…

The online search evaluation form recommended by the Machine-Assisted Reference Section Committee on Measurement and Evaluation of Service of the American Library Association is discussed. Each of the 10 questions recommended for inclusion and questions rejected as inappropriate are analyzed. Eleven references and the Search Evaluation…

Seven separate articles addressing bibliographic instruction in academic and elementary and secondary school libraries include annotated bibliographies on library instruction, nonprint materials and school library censorship, guidelines for an effective program, library instruction organizations and clearinghouses, and a description of the program…

Describes a method for assessing the performance of public libraries using a standardized scoring system and provides an analysis of public library data from New Jersey as an example. Library standards and the derivation of measurement ratios are also discussed. A 33-item bibliography and three data tables are included. (JL)

Considers whether the role of the school library media specialist is that of teacher or administrator and discusses how media specialists can be proactive leaders. Topics include collaborating with teachers, serving on committees, communicating with the principal, attending professional conferences, volunteering in professional organizations, and…

Discussion of school reorganization and reform focuses on standards and guidelines for school library media programs. Highlights include professional association guidelines, selected planning and evaluation instruments, and current state standards and guidelines. (LRW)

A library school dean, a public library director, and a recent graduate working as a public librarian give their reactions to a set of competencies recently developed by the Public Library Association's Education for Public Librarians Committee. Background and future plans for the document are also explained. (SLW)

Reports on the activities of the Society of School Librarians International (SSLI) during 1991. Topics discussed include legislative activities; congressional awards; continuing education opportunities; the annual conference; book awards; and election of officers. (LRW)

Describes an ACRL (American College and Research Libraries) project that utilized the electronic conferencing facility of BITNET to provide a system of mentoring for academic librarians conducting research. Results of an electronic mail survey of participants that examined experience levels, attitudes, problems, and communication patterns are…

Discusses imperatives for implementation of Omnibus Children and Youth Literacy through Libraries Act, including provision and prioritization of information about library services for youth, support from educational and community groups, improved library media education, cooperation among different types of libraries, leadership by state…

Discussion of the importance of continuing professional development activities for academic librarians focuses on a study that compared activities in Oklahoma academic libraries based on the type of institution, i.e., two year, four year, or doctorate granting. Demographic characteristics, institutional support, and level and type of professional…

Four articles about education for library and information studies in the United States discuss philosophies, goals, and objectives of graduate programs; the history and status of undergraduate degree and certification programs; the differentiation between master's, postmaster's, and doctoral programs; and the impact of professional associations on…

Describes the American Association of School Librarians' national reading research program, the purpose of which is to demonstrate the impact of library media specialists, collections, and reading promotion in public libraries, media centers, and classrooms on students' reading levels. Components of the programs are described, and proposed…