Assesses the current state of reference structures in online public access catalogs (OPACs) in a framework defined by stagnation, progress, and future challenges. Outlines six areas for reference structure development. Twenty figures provide illustrations. (AEF)

This review provides a summary of the feature and research content published in "School Library Media Quarterly" since 1972 to provide a description of the major research interests reflected by those who have published. The institutions and professional roles represented by the authors are also summarized. Results outlined in four…

A discourse analysis of a user-centered library and information science text determined that users and librarians were positioned in an unequal power relationship. Calls for critical reflexivity in how scholars and practitioners of library and information science construct the identities of people as information seekers and users. (59 references)…

Proposes an approach to information technology (IT) skills instruction for library and information science students which starts with databases and software, moves on to spreadsheets, and then considers graphics and word processing. This encourages students to consider information first, and then to progress to tools for its analysis and…

Access to information through technology brings information policy to the forefront of legislative debates and libraries must articulate their interests in the process. Defines information policy and highlights conflicting perspectives and opinions. A model of technology practice explains the interest in information policy, where a change in one…

Provides a summary of the accomplishments of Augusta Baker, the nationally and internationally recognized librarian, storyteller, and authority on Black literature for children. Discusses her education, student teaching, career as librarian, early experiences in story telling, and her contributions to various public libraries. Presents a short…

Describes a study conducted at Baruch College of the City University of New York that assessed the search techniques of trained endusers and determined whether or not they were searching the full-text system effectively. Correlations between native language and searching results and satisfaction are shown, and implications for training are…

Examines library education in Bangladesh. Discusses curriculum at all levels, continuing education, and professional opportunities. Notes that political turmoil has caused the shutdown of numerous public universities, creating significant impediments to training. (PEN)

An analysis of 275 searches of a LISA (Library and Information Science Abstracts) CD-ROM conducted by 67 master's students determined that different cognitive styles (comprehension, operation, versatile, field dependent, and field independent) resulted in different search behaviors and search outcomes, with and without postings information.…

Examines the writing of significant women in librarianship, education, politics, and publishing who had an influence on children's literature. Their advice to parents in mass market publications is discussed, a feminist perspective is offered, and suggestions for further research are included. (Author/LRW)

Presents a brief history of doctoral programs in library and information science (LIS) and reviews the purpose of the Ph.D. degree; the types of research involved; the curricula of LIS doctoral programs; and current trends in LIS research, including qualitative, interdisciplinary, and technology-based research. (Author/LRW)

A content analysis of 2,500 employment advertisements for academic librarian positions appearing in American Libraries (1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994) revealed patterns and trends in demand for computer-related skills. Reports an increase in demand over time; demand by size of library; changes in demand by position type; requirement by position…

Draws on theory from linguistics (particularly speech act theory), philosophy, and cognitive science to show how the ambiguous nature of "why" questions may lead to unproductive or even hostile responses in the reference interview. Suggests two main strategies for resolving this conflict, contextualization and the use of neutral…

Includes seven articles that explore career opportunities for people in the library and information sector in Australia. Highlights include the social value of librarianship; participation by Aboriginal people; teacher-librarians; recruiters for library-related professions; and training and vocational education sector careers. (LRW)

Informatization is a term of Japanese provenance denoting major systemic change from the application of information technology. Proposes a theory of post-war informatization focusing on information services in libraries, specifically computerized information retrieval. Describes four electronic epochs: offline, online, CD-ROM, and Internet, and…