Considers ways in which library services can be more proactive in today's networked-computer environment. Discusses how to find and use patterns of behavior, such as borrowing behavior and profiles of patrons' interests; making a CD-ROM with information describing the library's services and products; and reviving telephone reference. (LRW)

Describes programs at the Toronto Public Library that teach Internet skills to adult learners, including English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) classes and undereducated adults. Highlights include a sample lesson plan; experiences with adult-literacy classes; expanding Internet training; and Web sites for ESL and adult-literacy classes. (LRW)

Describes the special library's role in implementing ISO 9000 (i.e., a series of international quality-assurance standards developed by the International Organization of Standards). Topics discussed include document and data control, keeping the standards current, documentation of procedures, the ISO 9000 audit, and benefits for the library. (MES)

Answers commonly asked questions on library law that may arise under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Discusses fees for public records, rules libraries must follow for public information requests, individual library information-provision policy, and FOIA requirements for creation and disclosure of library records. (AEF)

Describes the emergence of communities of digital library (DL)research and practice, explores directions of digital libraries arising from these communities and speculates on future directions which point toward the need for extensive research in digital libraries and for the transformation of libraries as institutions. (AEF)

This study examined libraries' commitment to the Federal Depository Library Program and how they are coping with changing information formats (mostly electronic) and public service demands, from the perspective of senior administrators responsible for allocating resources and setting service priorities. (Author/LRW)

Describes several Peace Corps volunteers' experiences in establishing libraries in developing countries. Discusses how the service teaches global diversity and trains librarians to recognize needs and address them. Presents recommendations by returned Peace Corps volunteers for developing sustainable library plans for communities in developing…

Discusses basic assumptions behind the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and suggests that often Web pages are not accessible to the visually impaired. Highlights several resources that deal with the issues surrounding adaptive technology and disabilities, as well as tools and utilities for checking Web services. (AEF)

Offers insight from academic librarians into changes that occur when librarians become teachers. Discusses the rewards of developing long-term relationships with and a better understanding of students; effects of librarians having less time at the reference desk because of spending time on teaching; teaching as a focus of professional development;…

Describes the characteristics and roles of traditional libraries and information services, and examines predictions about their future. Analyzes recent models of the electronic or digital library, and describes the concept of the hybrid library. On this basis, develops a generic model of the library, using that term in its broadest sense.…

States that after hiring their first full-time, professional librarian and assigning a new budget to the library, Dunwoody Institute made a commitment to growing a full service library. Discusses the history of Dunwoody Institute and the Learning Resources Center. Maps out the strategic plan for the future, which places an emphasis on customer…

Describes a survey conducted by the Washoe County (Nevada) Library to investigate youth services programs, using a planning grant from the DeWitt Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund, "Public Libraries as Partners in Youth Development". Discusses education and tutoring programs, including homework centers; career development and mentoring…

Discusses the legacy of the work of Margaret Edwards for young adult librarianship. Highlights include accepting adult books for young adults; promoting reading and emphasizing the role of librarians in encouraging reading; meaningful outreach services; and youth participation. (LRW)

This interview with Walt Crawford, a senior analyst for the Research Libraries Group, discusses his objections to the term and concept "digital library," the persistence of print versus the prospect of all-digital libraries, the economic and ecological disadvantages of all-digital libraries, expanding traditional library and university…

Chicago's library and police partnership have created interactive programs for city youth. This article describes the partnership's Get Hooked on Fishing, Not Drugs program, Mystery Beat Book Club, Ghosts in the Graveyard and other art programs and discusses benefits for the children and participating organizations. (PEN)