Discusses making public library collections accessible to Spanish-speaking users and describes the consequences that can result from inattention to linguistic and cultural accessibility. Topics include cataloging issues and solutions; labeling; shelving; signage; electronic access; Spanish language training for staff; intercultural communication;…

Describes a qualitative study of the research and teaching habits of early adopters of electronic journals that was conducted at the University of Illinois, Chicago. Discusses perceptions, expectations, and changing practices pertaining to electronic journals and other electronic resources, focusing on shared behaviors and values and…

Offers practical tips and suggestions on how to conduct user surveys to evaluate library services. Topics include how trends, such as online services impact library reference services; incorporating survey questions into reference interviews; segmenting academic and public library users; questionnaire design; measuring value; and tabulating…

Describes factors that have hindered Spanish-language collection development and suggests strategies and tools that can help the non-Spanish-speaking librarian select and acquire Spanish-language monographs, periodicals, and audiovisual media for adult and youth audiences. Provides lists of selected resources for Spanish-language and Latino book…

In a pilot program for meeting their need for additional reference and instructional personnel, the Zimmerman Library of the University of New Mexico employed and then evaluated two graduate students. Administrators concluded that graduate assistants can make valuable contributions to reference, information, and instructional services if they are…

Focus among library consortia is shifting from integrated library systems to digital library projects, resource sharing, collective database licensing, multivendors, and document delivery. This article presents a draft of a strategic plan for Colorado Alliance of Research Libraries consortia; it includes discussion of CARL's mission, vision, and…

Discussion of technological change, the growth of information sources, and shrinking higher education budgets focuses on the merger of the library and the computer center at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. The role of the library director, staffing issues, resource allocation, and vision of service are examined. (Author/LRW)

Examines the trend toward outsourcing in libraries and presents views from information professionals in various work environments. Discussion covers privatization activities of government agencies and libraries as well as corporate libraries, particularly law firm libraries. The need for good library-vendor communication, the effect on public…

The level of library provision was surveyed in independent Scottish schools; surveys were returned by 39 of the 75 independent schools. The survey covered school size, examinations taken by pupils, library staffing and qualifications, books per pupil, audiovisual and computer-based resources, resources other than books, information skills programs…

This special section includes five articles that discuss public relations strategies for school librarians. Highlights include effective communication, including measuring and evaluating the success of public relations efforts; Web-based public relations; giving bookmarks to students; customers and cultural contexts; and successful job…

Describes the development of library media centers, programs, and staff at the Medford School District (Oregon). Information from the standards and research used to define roles and responsibilities is summarized, and relevant Oregon state educational organizations are listed. Some of the results of the district's well-defined library programs and…

This bibliography lists materials on school libraries, organized in the following sections: (1) Evidence that Quality School Library Media Programs Positively Affect Student Achievement; (2) Evidence and Arguments that Collaboration Pays Dividends; (3) Evidence and Arguments that Administrative Leadership Is Key in Developing Quality Library Media…

Discussion of library information systems focuses on the idea of including user-supplied data (USD) in libraries' automated catalogs. Hypertext is mentioned, the information explosion and the ability to selectively retrieve information is considered, and the value of user input in evaluating the relevance of material is discussed. (12 references)…

Describes ways of using CD-ROM technology for the benefit of blind and visually impaired library patrons. Science, reference, and American historical documents that can be converted to braille, large print, or voice output from CD-ROMs are described, and hardware, software, and staff considerations are discussed. (LRW)

Reports results of a study which gathered exploratory data about reference services to library school students via a questionnaire sent to librarians, faculty, and students. Possible contradictions between the daily reality of reference work and the idealism of reference codes of ethics which demand equal service for all patrons are considered.…