Discusses the growth in nonbibliographic online databases and machine-readable data files (MRDF) that are accessed offline, and considers how libraries need to respond to the changing needs and expectations of researchers. Textual and numeric databases are described, and three possible levels of library service are outlined. (13 references) (LRW)

Describes the Chicago Public Library model for regional libraries and discusses the planning and implementation of the regional concept by three public libraries. Topics discussed include advantages of the regional approach, criteria for location, levels of services offered, and guidelines for deciding whether the regional approach is appropriate…

Discusses optical character recognition (OCR) for use with MS-DOS microcomputers. Cost effectiveness is considered, three types of software approaches to character recognition are explained, hardware and operation requirements are described, possible library applications are discussed, future OCR developments are suggested, and a list of OCR…

Discusses multimedia/hypermedia information delivery and the effects of new technological developments; describes hypermedia applications, including PROJECT EMPEROR-I; considers the use of multimedia technology for end-user information delivery and its influence on library and information systems and services; and suggests possible future trends.…

Describes a plan developed by the Phoenix Public Library that involved all librarians working in branches in defining what constitutes excellence in professional performance in the areas of collection development, reference and reader's advisory services, and community interaction. Characteristics related to excellence are identified, and…

Describes an unobtrusive study of the ability of professional librarians to deal with factual questions that was conducted at Illinois State University. Evaluation of the accuracy of responses is discussed, the responsiveness and helpfulness of librarians is examined, attitude scores are described, and implications for improving reference service…

Suggests that the main reason for the presumed surplus of librarians is that these professionals refuse to defend, let alone expand, their territorial boundaries from "experts" who decide results independently of library staffs and budgets. Argues that librarians should provide better service, rather than encouraging self-service and that certain…

Provides an annotated bibliography of books: girls perceptions of their bodies, excellence in library services to young adults, adolescence in America, evaluating and reviewing childrens books, and connecting young adults and libraries. (PEN)

A survey of statements of philosophy on reference and bibliographic instruction from libraries in small, Chicago area liberal arts colleges and universities revealed a wide variety of relationships between the two services. The study concluded that most of the libraries surveyed compartmentalized reference and bibliographic instruction. (PEN)

Discussion of library Internet access and filtering focuses on a survey of Ohio public libraries that showed 17% of libraries are using filters to restrict access. Legal actions, Internet use policies, alternatives to filtering, complaints from the public, and recent court cases are examined. (LRW)

Discusses strategies for success used by the seven libraries that have won the Library of the Year award sponsored by Library Journal and The Gale Group (formerly Gale Research Inc.). Highlights include self-promotion; recognition for innovative planning and programs; fundraising benefits of winning; public-relations benefits; community benefits;…

Describes the New York State Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Clearinghouse that is run by the New York State Library and discusses hands-on GIS technology used as an enhancement to its reference services. Topics include community building, in-house projects, library database development, outreach, and the future of GIS reference. (LRW)

This group of articles focusing on poetry by and for teenagers includes a list of recommended volumes and anthologies, winners of the 1998 VOYA Teen Poetry Contest, and articles on a poetry coffeehouse, how libraries can be a niche for teens, launching a teen poetry program, and school-public library partnerships for poetry projects. (AEF)

Discusses information literacy and information-technology literacy, focusing on the responsibility of academic libraries to impart necessary skills. A sidebar by Kimberley M. Donnely "Learning from the Teaching Libraries" gives examples of four models of information-literacy development by colleges and universities. (AEF)

Explores issues surrounding the development of Internet services for children in public libraries; discusses literature and literacy issues in relation to information and communication technology; and describes a Web site, developed in the United Kingdom, based on "Treasure Island," that could serve as a model for integrating technology…