Discusses the benefits of mounting commercial and local databases to provide online access and describes the approach taken by the University of Pennsylvania. The issues discussed include database, local data file, and software selection; agreements with online vendors; cost effectiveness; and actual use of the online files at the university. (CLB)

Discusses the future of librarians, libraries, and library schools in the age of electronic information. Commentary includes the changing role of the librarian in information selection; organization and access in instruction; and suggestions for revitalizing library education and image improvement. (seven references) (KRN)

Offers a detailed overview of accreditation standards, criteria, and procedures used by one specialized accreditor; and suggests ways to be prepared for site visits and reports. A directory of 73 specialized accreditors and a brief bibliography are appended. (18 references) (Author/SLW)

Academic libraries and schools of library and information studies (LIS) may, by using LIS students to staff an information desk as fieldwork for a basic reference course, collaborate to provide useful educational experiences to LIS students and reliable reference service to library users. (Author/AEF)

Presents findings of a user-based study of the interior of Rodger's Science and Engineering Library at the University of Alabama. Compared facility evaluations from faculty, library staff, and graduate and undergraduate students. Features evaluated include: acoustics, aesthetics, book stacks, design, finishes/materials, furniture, lighting,…

Traces the establishment and functions of the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, the development of national databases including GULFNET, the services offered by KFUPM (King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals), the development of BITNET in the United States, and future possibilities of Internet use. (Author/LRW)

Discusses systemic and individual racism within society and within higher education and considers its effects on the behavior and attitudes of librarians of color and their white colleagues. Highlights include institutional challenges; recruitment; job satisfaction; retention; and racism. (Contains 24 references.) (LRW)

Looks at a seminal article by Arthur McAnally and Robert Downs on the changing role of the university library director to determine whether the changes they outlined in 1973 are still valid. Additional sources of strife for university library directors are described, and requirements for today's library directors are discussed. (Contains five…

Discusses the results of a survey of academic reference librarians, library schools, and professional associations for information professionals in the United Kingdom that examined ethical issues in academic reference librarians' work, how professional associations relate to these matters, and how well library schools are preparing information…

Examines selected literature on the role of student employment in academic libraries from the early 1900s to the present. Discusses stereotypes, responsibilities, qualifications, standards, gender and racial bias, training, job assignments, performance, and benefits of student employment. Contains 79 references. (AEF)

Discussion of the effects of cultural diversity on academic libraries and library and information science education examines the impact of demographics on affirmative action recruitment in business and higher education; effects of demographic trends on library and information science professions; faculty attitudes; and library and information…

This periodical price survey examines pricing trends, currency fluctuation and other predictors of 1996 serials costs. Tables are derived from analysis of three Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) databases and reflect subscription rates of large libraries. Sidebars include cost history information specific to mid-size to smaller academic…

Discusses two Electronic Library Education Centers (ELECs) created at the University of Arizona to improve library instruction in the use of online resources. Examines costs of developing ELECs; technical changes experienced; and benefits to users and librarians. A sidebar by Abbie J. Basile identifies Internet resources for planning and/or…

Discusses forces working against traditional academic libraries, including bureaucrats who do not understand libraries and want to save money and people who think technology will be able to provide better access to information without any guidance. Topics addressed include money and power; the economics of the publishing industry; and funding for…

Explores ways in which senior academic librarians contribute to the long-term educational, professional, collegial, and career development of entry-level reference librarians. Literature on reference training is reviewed; and four roles of senior librarians are described, including teacher, advisor, interpersonal role model, and mentor. (Contains…