Briefly describes the benefits of computer-assisted instruction for library applications in bibliographic instruction and staff training and notes that little quality software is available that is appropriate. Detailed guidelines are provided for librarians to design their own courseware, including planning, designing, writing, programming, and…

Research was undertaken to determine if the growth of academic library holdings was exponential, as reported by previous studies. Statistical analysis showed the growth rate of the Association of Research Libraries member libraries to be arithmetical, rather than exponential, taking into account library size and inflation. (CDD)

This study, which focused on the extent to which Lake Forest College (Illinois) students were aware of library reference services, used interviews and a revised version of a survey used elsewhere. Findings showed student awareness to be relatively high, and that the methodology would work well in other undergraduate settings. (Author/EM)

Description of 1986 American Library Association Conference summarizes significant organizational actions and presentations on upgrading automation systems, censorship, federal libraries, fees and public library services, black community information needs, Linked Systems Project, libraries and the homeless, new products exhibited, and 1994…

Examines the reasons why "more" subject access in online catalogs is not necessarily "better" and recommends that librarians prepare a statement informing users of what they need to know before using the catalog and how best to make use of its listing. (EM)

Six large academic libraries which belong and contribute cataloging to national online networks were studied. Interviews with catalogers, library administrators, and network quality control personnel showed that nationwide evaluation of catalogers' records creates enhanced status and influence for cataloging peer groups and provides opportunities…

A comparison of subject- and publisher-based book approval plans for academic libraries found publisher-based plans to be more successful for purchasing domestic publications, and subject-based plans for international ones. Library collections, organization, and vagaries of the publishing industry form the basis for selecting the plan which is…

Provides an example of a course integrated library instruction assignment in biographical research for undergraduate journalism students. The assignment is shown to accomplish three goals: development of library skills, knowledge of important living journalists, and a review of interviewing techniques. (EM)

Reports planning for and the installation of about 80 microcomputers for staff use at approximately 50 library units in the University of Michigan Library System. Highlights include the selection of hardware and software; methods of staff training; integration of the microcomputers into library operations; and benefits of electronic messaging and…

Lists computer programs selected on basis of following criteria: (1) applicability or easy adaptability to academic or research library environment; (2) operative on three microcomputer brands found in academic and research libraries; (3) good or excellent reviews appearing in software magazines; (4) price ranging from $50-$350. Vendor addresses…

This paper examines the current rate of change in university libraries and makes projections of future rates of change. Highlights include technological innovations, change models (particularly the Stages of Growth organizational change model), organization and administration of university libraries, and implications of change for librarianship.…

Discusses a paradigm for academic librarianship that requires greater sensitivity to and identification with needs of library users. Centrality of library academic community is questioned, noting insistence of librarians on independent status of library and failure of bibliographic instruction programs to make issue of critical thinking top…

Examination of factors of library technical processing priority systems (i.e., processing on basis other than randomization) highlights internal factors (priority by chronological sequence, personal choice, format, influence of organizational structure, acquisition type, patron, librarians' judgement); external factors (shared cataloging, Library…

Review of academic library planning developments highlights modular design concept prevalent in 1960s. Problem areas (irregular shapes, interior or exterior courts, monumentality, too much or too little glass) and the use atria, designer lighting, monumental effects, and unusual shapes to relieve perceived monotony are discussed. Five sources are…

This report presents statistics on how Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member libraries spend money on electronic resources. This report indicates that expenditures for electronic resources account for 25%, on average, of ARL institutions' library materials budgets. ARL libraries reported spending more than $228 million on electronic…