Discusses the need for library media specialists to develop a voice of authority. Discusses insights of the feminist perspective; gender differences and future characteristics of the next generation of librarians; combining strong voices of authority to lead the charge for equitable, fair access for all youth; and national investment in library…

There have been significant changes in the nature of scientific and technical librarianship in the past four decades, reflected both in the structure and organization of literature and the education and professional training of librarians. These changes are reflected in library school curricula and in the skills and abilities needed by…

This special theme section describes the University of Wisconsin-Madison's experience building its Electronic Library. Highlights include integrating resources and services; the administrative framework; the public electronic library, including electronic publishing capability and access to World Wide Web-based and other electronic resources;…

Discussion of the use of computer networks in academic libraries focuses on a technical-services perspective in the United Kingdom. Topics include access to electronic resources; standards; change management; the changing nature of the library catalog; redefining the local catalog; cataloging versus indexing; the Z39.50 information retrieval…

Outlines five projects currently funded by the United Kingdom's Electronic Libraries Program (eLib): HyLiFe (Hybrid Library of the Future), MALIBU (MAnaging the hybrid Library for the Benefit of Users), HeadLine (Hybrid Electronic Access and Delivery in the Library Networked Environment), ATHENS (authentication scheme), and BUILDER (Birmingham…

In 1991, the University Libraries of Northern Illinois University implemented a revised policy for renewals of library materials. Various system, staff, and patron-related concerns required the access services department to adapt to immediate demands, then to seek longterm solutions. This case study examines the initial impact of the new policy,…

This paper discusses the problems and difficulties faced by school libraries in the United Kingdom (UK), specifically England and Wales. These problems are lack of funding, lack of a central role in the curriculum, lack of a central role in the management structure, and inadequate staffing. Lack of library funding stems from overall under-funding…

This book offers practical advice to school library media specialists for developing and improving leadership skills. It is asserted that societal crises like illiteracy, poverty, alienation, and socioeconomic divisions make librarians "ecologists" of the mind. Librarians ensure equitable access to others' insights into life's concerns, and…

Policymakers and library administrators are being drawn to the idea of the "virtual library" and the "library without walls," the webs of electronic resources that supposedly will displace books, physical libraries, and most library staff, and are believing the virtual library to be imminent, adequate, and cost-effective. This…

Technology is arriving in school libraries in unprecedented quantities, resulting in many changes in the school library media center. While most librarians agree that technology is wonderful, many are feeling the stress of rapid change and coping with the decisions made by educational policy makers. This looseleaf notebook, written for the novice,…

In November 1991, the State Librarian (Michigan) established a committee to review and revise the standards of service for the blind and physically handicapped. These revised standards define the general responsibilities of Michigan subregional libraries to their regional libraries and their borrowers. Responsibilities cover basic services such as…

This study reports on the characteristics of selected public libraries into which adult literacy programs have become relatively integrated. The study addresses the following issues (1) the form of leadership in those libraries in which literacy programming has become integrated; (2) the organizational and staff support that promotes library…

This publication is a strategy plan to help teacher librarians avoid possible difficulties and promote positive decisions. The document is in the form of a hands-on checklist that includes reading suggestions, buying lists, product descriptions and contact information, and helpful hints. The six chapters are: (1) "Stepping In," including…

This resource guide is designed to assist local schools in South Dakota to evaluate and improve their library media programs. The information provided is non-regulatory in nature (with the exception of information from the "Administrative Rules of South Dakota"), and represents a foundation for building a quality library media program.…

This handbook sets out guidelines for the administration of resource centers for schools in the Northwest Territories, Canada, offers definitions of suitable and adequate resource services, and may be used as a planning tool for management staff. Four major topics are covered: (1) jurisdictional roles and responsibilities of the Department of…