Describes the Interactive Reference Assistance project developed at the University of Michigan to provide remote reference service for students in campus residence halls through the use of specialized software, desktop computers, and desktop cameras that allowed video and audio links directly to library reference staff. (LRW)

Describes external sources of funding for public libraries to establish and maintain their technology infrastructure, telecommunications services, and network-based resources and services. Highlights include LSTA (Library Services and Technology Act); the E-rate program; and the Bill and Melissa Gates Foundation U.S. Library Program. (LRW)

In these opening remarks, the First Lady welcomes the attendees to the White House Conference on School Libraries, including four members of Congress and several guest speakers. Presents conference focus on libraries - school libraries, community libraries - as places that are designed to enrich lives and learning. (MES)

Vital Link is a British program that links national reading and literacy organizations with libraries. The focus is on how libraries can support and motivate existing learners while attracting new learners. (JOW)

During the library centralization effort at a large telecommunications company, certain middle managers balked at giving up their library collections. A consultant was hired to determine library goals and objectives, and a survey of middle managers was conducted. Once support for centralized library services was demonstrated, an official decision…

Describes the dimensions and components of expert systems and their applications in libraries. Discussion of ways in which the productivity of library public services could be improved by using expert systems focuses on reference and bibliographic instruction applications. (four references) (MES)

Discusses the ethical problems of the reference librarian-client relationship in terms of the responsibilities of the librarian and the policies of the library. Codes of ethics are found to be of little use, and other approaches to solving ethical problems--such as identification and discussion of issues--are suggested. (36 references) (MES)

Provides background on automation of library catalogs. Arguments are presented in favor of standards for online catalogs, and the possibility that inconsistent record access may result in confusion for library patrons is discussed. (MES)

Reviews major library issues and events of 1988, including: (1) the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Library Awareness Program; (2) cooperation with USSR libraries; (3) library finance; (4) preservation; and (5) special programing. News about a number of prominent library professionals is included in a sidebar. (MES)

Reviews a study by the RAND Corporation on the changing ethnic nature of California which focused on the impact for public library services of having the majority of the population composed of what once were racial and ethnic minorities. The report is criticized for the narrowness of the questions addressed, softness of data, and simplicity of…

Describes problems with journal citation integrity, the conflict that has arisen between them and cataloging standards, and the parallel dangers presented by journal citations that are unverified. Emphasizes the importance of awareness on the part of public service librarians. (Author/JKP)

Discusses the cost-billing procedures implemented by a private company library. Formulae for billing are explained in the context of provision of commercial services at competitive market prices within a balanced budget. (JKP)

Relates the marketing concept to library reference services. Highlights include a review of the literature and an overview of marketing, including research, the marketing mix, strategic plan, marketing plan, and marketing audit. Marketing principles are applied to reference services through the marketing mix elements of product, price, place, and…

When questionnaires were used to assess the involvement of state library agencies in the provision of public library youth services, a consultant profile emerged. Consultants' activities, strengths and weaknesses are described, and a stronger commitment by agencies to consultants and to effective library service for children is urged. (EA)

Describes creative writing programs for teens in several public libraries including the Boston Public Library. Among the successful projects were writer-led workshops, the publication of newsletters and magazines, and contests. A list of possible publishing outlets for teens is included. (EA)