This study measured the following performance factors at the Cleveland Health Science Library: user bibliographic information; collection development policy; acquisition policy; user catalog; circulation; library operation/functioning; and user search. Book availability rates were similar to rates for other academic libraries, and book…

This survey of library patrons gathered data about training needs and methodologies for CD-ROM users. Data from 87 inexperienced CD-ROM users and 31 experienced users were analyzed. Patrons especially wanted training in search strategy, procedures, Boolean logic, and equipment. Females rated the importance of training higher than males, and…

Examines public library interlibrary loan statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) as a measure of the effectiveness of efforts to equalize service throughout a state. Data from 1988-89 are compared with data from approximately 5 years earlier from 35 states. Data without earlier year comparisons are offered for other…

Considers issues and concerns relating to the integration of archival and manuscripts records into library bibliographic and retrieval systems. Differences in the nature of library and archival materials are discussed, library functions and archival functions are compared, and archival uses of authority files are described. (six references) (LRW)

Describes attempts to develop library services in the island republic of Kiribati (the Gilbert, Phoenix, and Line islands). The development of rural library service in conjunction with school libraries is discussed, a postal library service is described, the establishment of village libraries is discussed, and constraints that have inhibited…

Discusses the use of microcomputer-based workstations that are provided for public access in libraries. Criteria for workstations are discussed, including standard hardware, open-design software, scalable interface, and connectivity options for networking; systems that provide full-text access are described; and the need for standards is…

Discusses the potential of the Supreme Court's recent decision in Webster v. Reproductive Health Services, which upheld the Missouri anti-abortion statutes, to encourage state sponsored fiscal censorship in libraries. The types of library services and materials that might be affected are identified, and the First Amendment implications are…

Briefly reviews the history of public libraries in the United States and discusses the features that make them distinctive from other libraries, including patrons served, objectives, services provided, collections, involvement in public relations and dependence on local financial support. It is argued that public libraries have a bright future,…

Description of the use of CD-ROM as an alternative to online searching at the University of Bahrain discusses hardware selection, database selection, CD-ROM operation, and implications for libraries in developing countries. (six references) (MES)

Discusses the current emphasis on assessment of library effectiveness and describes several assessment techniques. It is argued that, by encouraging staff to develop an attitude of self-assessment based on their ability to add value to library services, the assessment phenomenon can be used to improve the overall quality of libraries. (11…

Reference services for disabled students include traditional directional and informational assistance as well as physical assistance. Providing this service takes planning, commitment, and funding on the part of librarians and library administration. A staff development program should be offered to increase awareness of disabled users' needs. (17…

Describes a teen volunteer program sponsored by the Clearwater Public Library System. The discussion covers promotional activities, job responsibilities and training, program evaluation, staffing, and funding. The volunteer application and guidelines are appended. A sidebar reports the results of a national survey of the public library resources…

Briefly discusses six issues related to the use of CD-ROM in libraries and provides sources of information on each issue. The issues discussed are pricing and costs; user preferences for CD-ROM; networking as a means of meeting high demand for CD-ROM; media options; strategic planning to meet demands; and bibliographic instruction. (10 references)…

Describes computer networks that support scholarly research and explains the idea of a colibratory, i.e., a collaborative, distributed, experimental scholarly information network that is analogous to a traditional library. Information resources that could be available are discussed, technological considerations in networking are described, and…

Describes a long range program for library development in Illinois utilizing Library Services and Construction Act funds. For each area of development, the discussion covers the identification of needs, activities to meet needs, and criteria for funding. Policies and procedures for funding applications are also reviewed. (CLB)