Discusses some of the problems created by the introduction of the Internet to academic library services. Topics include problems with the structure of the Internet, librarians' training on the Internet, the preparedness of current users for the Internet, and the impact on bibliographic instruction. (Author/LRW)

Describes a survey of special libraries in Kentucky that was conducted to determine resume items important to special librarians and to compare results with a previous study of resume items important to academic librarians. Differences in expectations of special and academic libraries are discussed. (Contains five references.) (LRW)

Librarians and library users were interviewed about their perceptions of actual reference encounters in academic libraries. Results demonstrate that a communication-centered approach to reference encounters provides rich insights into the interpersonal dynamics between librarians and users. An appendix presents some interview responses. (JMV)

Argues that a deleterious effect of increased use of online databases in academic debate is the change in the nature of information available to debaters and corresponding changes in ideological assumptions in argumentation. Examines the link between debate training and argumentative proficiency in a democracy. Foresees the likely consequences of…

Replies to another article in this issue by Robert Tucker. Argues that Tucker's view of how debaters research is limited. Suggests that his argument relies on a skewed view of the nature of electronic resources. States that Tucker's argument is grounded in a misperception of the nature of the free marketplace of ideas and its role within a…

Responds to a reply to this author's article in this issue. Identifies the four significant points of difference in the two arguments and examines each point. Reiterates the author's initial arguments. (PA)

Describes the Questia subscription-based online academic digital books library. Highlights include weaknesses of the collection; what college students want from a library; importance of marketing; competition for traditional academic libraries that may help improve library services; and the ability of Questia to overcome barriers and…

Describes a study at the University of Idaho that used focus groups to explore information seeking methods and how they had changed over the past few years. Highlights include information sources; criteria used to judge information sources; obstacles to finding information; time spent; values and emotions; and the ideal information source. (LRW)

Discussion of the need for archives to remove duplicate or unneeded materials from their collection focuses on the legal and ethical issues raised for archives by the use of online auction venues in deaccessioning unwanted materials, based on experiences at the University of Wisconsin. (Author/LRW)

Describes an outsourcing project at the University of Florida library in which their supplier of domestic serial standing orders supplied a large percentage of the standing orders with complete physical processing. Discusses cost effectiveness, low error rate, and the resulting improvement in workflow efficiency that made the project a success.…

Discusses leadership theory as it relates to the library profession and the importance of factors to identify individuals who are likely to be successful that can form the basis for recruitment strategies. Describes results of testing recruitment theory in academic and public libraries, and recommends further research. (Contains 50 references.)…

Discusses leadership assessment in academic libraries; explores the topic of leadership assessment through a review of the literature, the arguments on performance reviews, and through an exploration of the societal and institutional context within which these reviews take place in academia; and reviews the leadership roles of library directors.…

Describes the evolution and progress toward a uniquely integrated library and computer services unit at Kenyon College. Discusses its focus on constituencies; merging of the divisions; benefits for students, faculty, administrative units, and the institution; meeting challenges; and generalizing from the model. (EV)

The Louisiana State University Libraries adopted a mentoring program in 1998 to help tenure-track librarians successfully meet tenure requirements. The program was evaluated after the first year and the faculty determined that it was successful; it was implemented on a permanent basis. The program was developed using six basic components. Details…

Examines ARL (Association of Research Libraries) member library Web sites to assess the prominence and extent of scholarly communication information available. Discusses the lack of information on most Web sites regarding scholarly communication; ARL's efforts to encourage librarians' participation in the future of scholarly communication; and…