This detailed overview of the concept of the information broker covers the following topics: (1) emergence and development of the concept; (2) services offered; (3) clientele; and (4) fee policies. Public sector libraries as information brokers and the future of information brokering are also discussed. Sixty-two references are listed. (MES)

Examines the library profession from a cross cultural perspective in order to explain how and why librarians define their work the way they do. The efforts of librarians to gain professional recognition are discussed as a means of understanding how librarians view their role and how they are ultimately affecting their society. (CLB)

Compares the philosophy of librarianship in the Soviet Union, where libraries are subordinate to the goals of the Communist party, and Scandinavia, where libraries maintain political neutrality. A brief history of library education in both countries is given and the current state of library education and research is described. (CLB)

Analyzes the impact of South African political, economic, and social conditions on the library and information environment and the implications for education in librarianship. The discussion covers key issues to be addressed by the library profession and the need for a reformulation of educational objectives. (103 references) (Author/CLB)

An examination of how well the Canadian public library is meeting the needs of the serious reader interested in self education, as compared to new and secondhand book stores and academic libraries, found that the public library is the most important and effective agency in providing materials for this group. (CLB)