Three articles discuss the issue of the mediator's role in the library of the electronic age. Topics addressed include computer-assisted instruction; online catalogs; computer networks; professional identity; reference service and bibliographic instruction; CD-ROMs; online systems; personal home microcomputers; Internet and list servers;…

Twelve community telephone surveys administered to the residents of 34 Connecticut towns measured their knowledge, attitudes, and use related to public library services. Results suggested needed improvements in collection development, the importance of location, and residents' willingness to pay more per year for library services. (SLW)

Discusses three major roles of the academic library reference department manager: managing reference personnel, including training, communication, performance evaluation, and conflict resolution; implementing new technologies, including assessment of users' needs; and leadership and planning for future changes, including strategic planning,…

Seven articles discuss the competencies needed by library and information science school graduates. Surveys of needed competencies are compared, a model of the information activities of a research library of the future is proposed, staffing and educational requirements are discussed, and a need for new philosophies of user services is suggested.…

Six articles discuss the need for increased access to information for agricultural and scientific research in the countries of Zambia, Kenya, Ghana, Turkey, India, and Nigeria. Discussions focus on each country's current scientific and agricultural development and the demand for scientific materials and greater information dissemination. (MAB)

A study was conducted at the University of Southern Mississippi School of Library Science to quantitatively determine whether courses adequately addressed program goals and objectives. Results showed that service goals and librarianship were reasonably addressed, but research and management goals were addressed in few courses. The statement of…

Describes a current awareness service developed for science and engineering faculty at the University of Minnesota that used microcomputer databases, a campus network, mainframe computing, and electronic mail to provide weekly searches of recently published literature. Cost effectiveness is discussed, and results of an evaluation of the service…

Makes recommendations for student research projects on local history and family history. Suggests teachers and librarians working together can overcome problems concerning accessibility to, and careful use of, genealogical materials. Suggests research projects and gives examples of cooperation between teachers and librarians who solved research…

Discusses the school librarian's role in helping to develop students' reading motivation. Topics include the importance of feedback; providing time to read, perhaps as a reward; adequate access to books; flexible schedules for library time; reading aloud; book-discussion groups; family involvement; and using older students as tutors. (LRW)

Examines the Amazon.com online bookstore as a blueprint for designing the world's largest library. Topics include selection; accessibility and convenience; quality of Web sites and search tools; personalized service; library collection development, including interlibrary loan; library catalogs and catalog records; a circulation system; costs;…

Describes the rebuilding efforts at the library of California State University at Northridge after the January 1994 earthquake. Discusses electronic resources; patron use of other libraries; rescuing materials that could be salvaged; staff assignments; resuming library service; fundraising; communication with staff; public relations, emotional…

Examines ways in which information technology developments have changed academic libraries over the last few decades, and speculates about further changes to come. Discusses computerizing library operations; public access; electronic formats, particularly for journal articles; and information networks, including expectations about services,…

Presents a regional comparison of school library programs, collections, and services. Highlights include education and training of media specialists; planning; funding sources and priorities; collection size; local expenditures; resources, including access to the Internet, videos, and CD-ROMs; computers and technology; and responsibility for Web…

This volume's topics include librarian role and ethical issues in Internet searching, strategies for locating career resources on the Internet and World Wide Web, career information for "Generation X" and for alumni, collaboration between libraries and university career services, career information gophers, and electronic privacy and…

Discusses building self-esteem and confidence of disabled students through school library programs, based on Australian case studies. Topics include validity and reliability of case studies; the influence of teacher attitudes on student attitudes toward the disabled; physical accessibility; information literacy; information technology use; and…