Reflects on changes in information technology and current and possible future trends. Topics discussed include technological innovations and their chances for success; information technology devices; finding market niches; and implications for libraries, including the future of print books and projections of electronic access and publishing. (LRW)

Describes the Electronic Text Center at the University of Virginia that contains an online collection of full-text databases delivered through a single search program. Highlights include user support services; use of Standard Generalized Markup Language; users; and providing a model for other universities. (LRW)

Examines advantages and disadvantages of the traditional model of undifferentiated service versus an alternative model of differentiated services, which includes directions and general information; technical assistance, "information lookup" for the client, research consultation, and library instruction. Suggests each service should fit…

Discusses an in-service cross-training program designed for reference desk workers at the University of New Mexico Library. Describes the reference department and provides an overview of cross training. Highlights include training issues, a needs assessment questionnaire, program implementation, and evaluation. Four appendices provide sample…

By reflecting the new global community in staffing, collections, programs, exhibits, and services, public libraries will be fulfilling their role in the acculturation and education of new citizens, as well as contributing to greater community understanding and a new world order. A sidebar lists seven steps for serving recent immigrants. (AEF)

Discusses the role of librarians as information intermediaries and suggests that this role be emphasized instead of encouraging enduser searching that relegates librarians to the role of advisor or consultant. Highlights include librarians' roles in public education; reference services; academic librarians; and the appropriate use of technology.…

Offers reflections on the roles of youth librarians. Topics include the impact of societal changes on library services; librarians as change agents for new technology; community needs; marketing and programming strategies; and cooperation and visibility. (LRW)

A new model for bibliographic instruction that includes computer and multimedia technologies is necessary. Information literacy should be redefined as the knowledge needed by information specialists to redesign information retrieval within libraries. A user-friendly library should provide both print sources and the new information technologies.…

Reviews 10 years of library and information developments in East, Central, and Southern Africa. Topics include school libraries; public libraries and rural information services; academic libraries; education and training; and professional library and information associations. (AEF)

Presents issues from a debate about interlibrary loan (ILL) policies and the use of union lists on the OCLC (Online Computer Library Center) ILL subsystem. Highlights include library funding, costs of maintaining serials holdings on a utility, borrowing procedures, quality service, workload leveling, staffing, and problems with OCLC system…

Collection development policies as traditionally conceived are of little practical utility. Research librarians will better serve themselves and their users by devising flexible guides to information associated with particular fields of study. Resource maps using electronic technology could accommodate different kinds of inquiries. (Author/AEF)

Examines implications of new technology for libraries. Discusses ways libraries interface with new home and business information services and information formats. Highlights include CD-ROMs, the Internet, library networks, technological development, electronic image delivery, costs and funding, and equipment. (AEF)

Surveys traditional rural library outreach services as well as new activities incorporating advanced technology. Highlights include problems of cost and distance, bookmobiles, books by mail, deposit collections, video, rural health care information systems, Department of Agriculture extension services, and programs sponsored by colleges and…

A discussion of the "virtual library," use of a variety of cost-effective information technologies to provide high-quality library services to every sector of the community, considers implications for the nature and quality of public library services, especially those of branch libraries and libraries in rural areas. (MSE)

The Kalamazoo Public Library recently won an election that increased local library tax support from 2.8074 mills to 4 mills. Knowing why the election was being held, when information on the issue(s) would be communicated to voters, and how the information would be disseminated contributed to its success. The funding provides for renovations, a new…