In a time when information self-service and enhanced competition have sent libraries of all types into an oftentimes desperate search for a renewed sense of purpose, a fundamentally important question takes center stage: How can libraries connect with the deepest aspirations of their service communities? This article describes a new library…

The Digital Britain White Paper outlines the Government's vision for the digital future of the country. In this article a number of industry experts, stakeholders, politicians and commentators tell how they viewed the report and its likely repercussions.

The paper describes the introduction of Web 2.0 techniques and tools at the Yarra Plenty public library in Victoria, beginning with library staff. The author argues that as libraries move from Web 1.0 type delivery systems to the social networking world of Library 2.0 librarians need to deploy and make accessible these radically different systems,…

Considers how four historical events have influenced the world for information professionals and the view these events offer of the future: (1) invention of the Gutenberg printing press; (2) invention of the transistor; (3) success of the railroad; and (4) a statement by John Cotton Dana, first president of the Special Libraries Association. (9…

The first of two articles on the current state of relations between librarianship and new technologies describes recent events that signal an apparent drift toward a traditional vision of librarianship, and away from any emphasis on information technologies. (CLB)

The literature on information literacy often assumes that there is an inherent link between the need for information literacy and what is commonly referred to as the information explosion. This assumed link is reflected in programs of information literacy instruction offered by academic libraries. This article argues that the basic concepts of…

Examines the changing roles of libraries and librarians in the information age, emphasizing the impact of technology. It is suggested that librarians should assert themselves as providers of information in a human context. Nine references are listed. (MES)

This paper addresses the library collection development of spatial information in cartographic format. Highlights include: the impermanent nature of maps; changes in spatial information creation, storage, processing, and management resulting from developments in computer-based information technology; steps required to download the digital version…

Discusses emerging roles for the library and librarian, including services in the following areas: (1) special collection management and reference; (2) information systems; (3) expert systems; (4) electronic publishing; (5) telecommunications networking; and (6) computer support. The technologies of artificial intelligence, graphic imaging,…

The mission of the college library of the future will be principally a teaching one, directly linked to the institution's educational mission. Therefore, assessment and accreditation should be directed primarily at the library's relationship to the teaching and learning functions of the institution. Evaluation should emphasize how interaction with…

Arguing that today's youth yearns for initiation into adult society, this article examines visions of the future of adolescence in Western Society by contrasting the films "Star Trek" and "Blade Runner," and questions the role of information technology. Discusses library services for adolescents and the role of librarians as…

Discussion of the diffusion of information technology focuses on telecommunications in developing countries, television systems, and personal computers. Examples and statistics from the United States and other countries are provided. (eight references) (MES)

Provides background on networks and describes two national networks, the Internet and BITNET. Several related topics are also addressed: convergence of BITNET and the Internet; network decentralization; a proposed comprehensive national research and education network (NREN); libraries and the proposed network; and the library of the future. A…

Discusses problems that new information technologies have created for intellectual property concerns. Digital sampling devices used in music are described, downloading from large databases is discussed, the problems with derivative works are considered, outdated copyright laws are discussed, and ways that librarians can help protect intellectual…

Examines the origins of the new emphasis on information in the public library through the work of such authors as Alvin Toffler and John Naisbitt. The effects of technological change on the future of the public library and the role of the library in meeting society's information needs are considered. (MES)