Discusses how one school library functions as a natural setting for extending the literacy of students, even though the library has no librarian. Focuses on how instruction and the opportunities for meaningful practice are integrated realistically as students use this "second classroom," the school library. (MG)

Discusses the value of the practicum in learning reference interview techniques. Methods for offering such field experience and programs in several library schools are described, with emphasis on the practicum experience at the University of Alberta. A possible reference practicum program is outlined. (16 references) (Author/MES)

The literature of reference service emphasizes service at the reference desk and overlooks other activities of reference librarians. Self-evaluation studies would enable reference librarians to identify what they do and assign a time and value to each task. Such studies should be the first step in planning and structuring a reference department.…

Considers the five parts in education for reference work: (1) the formal sequence of courses leading to a Master's degree in library science; (2) on-the-job training; (3) continuing education; (4) evaluation; and (5) the acquisition of substantive, multi-disciplinary knowledge. (three references) (MES)

Discusses the maintenance of vertical files in the school library. Topics covered include circulation, weeding, using materials for special displays, acquiring materials, policies on advertising and controversial issues, cross-references, subject headings, introducing students to vertical files, beginning a collection, and preservation. (MES)

Discussion of issues in bookmobile services to migrant workers focuses on the experiences of the Fresno County Public Library. A profile of migrant workers is provided, and funding problems and options, the information provision aspect of library service, lending policies, and impediments to serving migrants are discussed. (three references) (MES)

Describes the facilities, collections and services of the Cincinnati Zoo Media Center Library. Plans for the future expansion of an extensive slide collection are discussed. (CLB)

Responds to the suggestion that services provided by research libraries must adapt to changing research patterns. It is argued that research patterns need to be evaluated as well as described, and that research libraries must define their goals and relate activities to those goals as well as to current research patterns. (seven references)…

This study explored the relationship between expanded information and referral (I&R) services and traditional reference services in public libraries in North Carolina. Results show librarians feel I&R services should be limited to those closely related to traditional reference services. Other I&R services typically provided by social…

Describes the function of and services offered by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) of the Library of Congress, which is charged with meeting the research and information needs of the U.S. Congress. The interaction of research analysts and librarians within the service is discussed. (CLB)

Describes the background of and the concept, and purpose of a local file in the Pikes Peak Library District's community resource and information system. The year established, scope and function, and sample records are reviewed for the nine files that currently comprise the system. (two references) (MES)

Surveys the service marketing literature for models and data-gathering instruments measuring service quality, particularly the instruments SERVQUAL and SERVPERF, and assesses their applicability to special libraries and information centers. Topics include service characteristics and definitions of service; performance-minus-expectations and…

Describes a study that compared the cost-effectiveness of consolidated county libraries in large metropolitan areas of the Midwest with the cost-effectiveness of large city libraries which share service to the county with other large public library systems. The questionnaire used in the survey is appended. (Author/LRW)

Describes how the Indiana library community defeated a "Speaker's bill" in the Indiana House of Representatives that threatened public library interests. Topics addressed include the introduction of the bill, lobbying, and arguments against the bill. (SLW)

A collection of three articles presents three programs public librarians have created and implemented to engage the vitality and enthusiasm of young people together with library resources: (1) a summer reading club and "archeological dig"; (2) a young adult mystery festival; and (3) young adults socializing with seniors. (Author/JMV)