Reviews the literature on outcome-based education (OBE) and discusses its application in library instruction and reference service, particularly in the introduction of new information technologies. Suggests that an OBE approach in the planning stage can help determine if an information resource is beneficial to the users. (Author/LRW)

Presents theoretical frameworks relating to technological change and innovation, including the diffusion of innovations, and then discusses how those theories can be applied to the management of instruction programs in libraries. Highlights include traditional instructional strategies; infrastructure and support; integrating technology into…

This case study describes the use of an information technology vendor conference to assure the smooth opening of a public library in Portland, Oregon. Vendors for hardware, telecommunications, integrated library systems, and networks met with library administration and staff to troubleshoot problems and share information and to ensure a timely…

Provides a checklist of concerns for libraries planning to implement shared research databases in a consortium environment, based on experiences at OhioLINK. Highlights include database selection criteria, licensing, pricing, funding, vendor considerations, database profiling, custom data processing, hardware selection, database access,…

Explains the leadership roles that technology-related organizations play in creating an environment to nurture a successful transition of libraries into the new roles they will play as the result of new technology. Discusses the evolving role of technology providers; levels of leadership; and leadership for the future. (Author/LRW)

Describes the impact of networked information technology environments on libraries, users, and library competitors, focusing on the leadership role of library administrators. Discusses the network generation as agents of change; transforming learning; the impact of networked information; the impact on the workplace; and emerging technologies.…

Discusses electronic books as a disruptive technology, that is, a technology that has appeal to its users but upsets the traditional models. Highlights include a history of print technology; types of electronic books; reader devices; stakeholders, including users, librarians, and publishers; and how vendors can remain relevant. (LRW)

Discussion of methodologies for libraries to use when selecting an integrated library system focuses on the benefits of using a Request for Proposal (RFP), based on experiences at the University of Rochester. A copy of the system vision statement which describes the purpose of the RFP is appended. (LRW)

Looks behind the wonders of technology to real and potential losses by using the literature of sociology, education, psychology, philosophy, and semantics. Considers speed, the information glut, cultural amplification, the demise of community, and status, and suggests possible approaches to rethinking information technology. (Author/LRW)

Describes the development of library and bibliographic information networks, differences between the functions of archives and libraries, and the challenge to create information networks which encompass both library and archival materials. (CLB)

Fourteen articles address issues related to library personnel administration in an automated environment, such as education for automation, salaries, impact of technology, expert systems, core competencies, administrative issues, technology services, job satisfaction, and performance appraisal. A selected annotated bibliography is included. (MES)

Examines present trends as well as the past history of information technology as it affects libraries. Topics include library vision and the need for a redefinition of their role as information middlemen between vendors and consumers; effects of the World Wide Web; and electronic information. (LRW)

Describes the Committee on Institutional Cooperation (CIC). Identifies the reasons consortia and vendors might want to engage in collaborative licensing ventures; describes the process used in the CIC for coordinating the acquisitions and licensing of these resources; and discusses problems encountered. Includes guidelines for collaborative…

The story of the pony express offers lessons for today's document delivery. Pricing, policy, competition, and evolving technology need to be considered. To evaluate future options, researchers need to examine: types of document delivery; benefits of combining outside services with in-house systems; criteria for selecting technologies and…

Discussion of the World Wide Web and the role of academic librarians as online system developers and designers focuses on usability testing. Usability evaluation at OCLC and at the University of Arizona is described, and the integration of the results into their Web and online product designs is discussed. (Author/LRW)