Discusses problems of increasing numbers of databases (standardization, vendor contracts, training, restricted access, duplicate citations), noting implications for change in librarian's role as supplier of decision making data (education, users groups, search aids, information brokers, collection evaluation, reference and source databases,…

Narrates experiences at Randolph Macon College Library in instituting an online search service and offers suggestions to those considering starting service. Proposals, equipment, selecting vendors, search aids, training, planning, policy, promotion, population served, uses and effectiveness, impact on workload and interlibrary loan, and records…

Survey of 56 public reference librarians from New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania reveals that they perceive reference service as comprising question answering (34 percent); locating information (30 percent); service (17 percent); providing materials (7 percent); aiding readers in library use (4 percent); telephone referral (2 percent); 100 percent…

Introduces children's librarians to the theories of cognitive growth in children formulated by Jean Piaget. An annotated bibliography of three primary and 16 secondary references is provided to promote insight and to reinforce commitment to children's services. Five references are listed. (RAA)

Suggests methods for improving access and publicizing holdings in microform collections, including the use of special labels for microform bibliographies, placing plastic overlays on catalog cards, listing microform reel numbers in short-title reference catalogs, and compiling guidebooks to microform collections. Eight references are listed. (CHC)

Discusses the advantages and limitations of market segmentation as strategy for the marketing of information services made available by nonprofit organizations, particularly libraries. Market segmentation is defined, a market grid for libraries is described, and the segmentation of information services is outlined. A 16-item reference list is…

The New York Public Library's preservation and conservation activities during the last three decades that are discussed include environmental control systems, collection use, binding, deacidification, microphotography, and cooperative microfilming. A list of 32 references is included. (CHC)

Identifies the role of the trustee in the public library and the responsibilities that accompany it. (Author/LLS)

A brief review of the increasing need for library services to Hispanics includes reviews of two useful references. It is pointed out that library schools and the American Library Association can play a crucial role in providing quality library services for the Spanish-speaking, and programs at several library schools are mentioned. (LLS)

Discusses the need for effective design considerations in libraries to attract users. Having attractive entrances, using space effectively, creating assignable space, providing comfortable seating, avoiding crowding and barriers, and having a flexible design to accommodate technological change are among the areas discussed. (CHC)

Discusses the public service needs of manuscript, archive, and large monograph microform collections based on the format of the original materials. The need for additional technical service, particularly cataloging, is addressed. References are listed. (CHC)

Reports on a survey of 47 academic library online facilities. Data gathered on finances, number of searches conducted, patrons served, sytems accessed, equipment used, procedures, promotion, and other facets are summarized. (FM)

Describes the rise of information brokers, who package, validate, and evaluate data for clients on a cost-effective basis, and who use all forms of technology. It is suggested that librarians should familiarize themselves with these new trends, benefit from them through their use, and seek development of a national information policy. (Author/JD)

Reviews the historical development of libraries and the evolution of the information industry to describe the impact of information technology upon libraries. Opportunities for librarians are illustrated by practical suggestions for transition from a library to an information context. (RAA)

Appraises the effect of the Jarvis-Gann Proposition 13 for the reduction of real property taxes, on California libraries in general and on young adult services in particular. Statistics are provided that document the cutback in library services to children and young adults. (RAA)