As congressional library supporters retire, establishing new commitments for library services and funding is a priority for advocates. Highlights retiring library champions in Congress, their contributions, and current congressional librarian, Representative Major Owens. Suggests ways to secure more support--educating legislators about libraries,…

Provides practical tips on three key traits of successful library managers: ability to motivate, utilization of authority to reward or discipline, and ability to delegate. Encouraging library support staff interested in becoming professional librarians is stressed. (EAM)

Provides ideas to help libraries build a successful volunteer program in light of changing lifestyles. Suggestions include recruiting from new and diverse sources such as seniors, people doing community service, minorities, and persons with disabilities and using formal employer groups. The importance of flexibility and professionalism in managing…

This first in a two-part series on how librarians can negotiate services and prices with subscription agencies focuses on how vendors operate. Factors that influence agency costs, revenues, and service charges are described, including economies of scale, discounts from publishers, and prepayment and cash flow. (seven references) (LRW)

Argues that librarians should respond to the growing demand for medical information by expanding their role. The development of medical information reference, issues of accountability, legal responsibility, and user characteristics are discussed. Seven steps toward accountability, including in-depth reference interviewing, referral, training, and…

Libraries' commitment to open access can jeopardize personal safety. Violent incidents are increasing in libraries due to factors such as evening hours, variety of clientele, and flaws in building design and materials arrangement. This article provides ideas on how to create a safer library environment and on factors to consider when preparing…

This fourth lesson in a continuing education course on legal issues affecting libraries and librarians discusses the library's rights and legal responsibilities in the areas of censorship and intellectual freedom, the Freedom of Information Act and patron privacy, problem patrons, and ethical considerations of library services. (14 references)…

Offers strategies for increasing library budgets, based on the pragmatic realities of funding decisions. Strategies discussed include: associating library needs with a more influential constituency; allowing service to deteriorate to intolerable levels; using influential patrons as spokesmen for the library; and appealing to funders' priorities…

Presents guidelines developed at Cornell University for selection of compact-disc databases for public use in libraries. Criteria are suggested for the following areas: (1) collection development; (2) administrative considerations; (3) vendor considerations; (4) search capabilities; and (5) ease of use. One reference is listed. (MES)

Discusses how libraries can deal with criminal and disruptive behavior, including vandalism, theft, and threats toward individual safety. Security measures proposed and/or implemented by various public and academic libraries, and the Library of Congress, are highlighted. Also included are a list of crisis prevention tips and suggestions for…

Presents suggestions for smooth and satisfying transactions between reference librarians and patrons, as well as for better collegial relationships. Highlights include: being prepared to help patrons; staying visible; serving "who's next"; working together and allowing for personal styles; making referrals; and using diplomacy while correcting…

This pullout guide addresses issues regarding library use of copyrighted videotapes and computer software. Guidelines for videotapes cover in-classroom use, in-library use in public library, loan, and duplication. Guidelines for computer software cover purchase conditions, avoiding license restrictions, loaning, archival copies, and in-library and…

Discusses problems involved and describes procedures for integrating card catalog entries made according to the Anglo American Cataloging Rules, Second Edition (AACR2), into an existing author/title file. The fear that integration of the new AACR2 headings into existing files would create bibliographic chaos has proved to be unfounded. (LLS)

Compiles listserv responses from practicing library professionals on advice to give new librarians. Encourages newcomers to join library listservs and associations, practice continuous education, actively participate in organizations, develop a sense of humor, and maintain a service attitude. Other advice includes developing outside interests and…

A series of articles reviews current trends in library furniture, including designs to accommodate computer equipment and workstations, children's furniture, shelving, and display aids. Design requirements and evaluation criteria are discussed, and a directory of furniture suppliers is provided. (CLB)