Provides background information on the development of the Ramapo Catskill Library System's (NY) LibraryLand Web site. Highlights include other library-related resource guides on the Web; an emphasis on public libraries; graphics; links; the use of HTML; and templates for designing library home pages. (LRW)

Explores factors in the history of the Open Archives Initiative (OAI) that have contributed to the positive response of the digital library and information community toward version 2 of the OAI Protocol for Metadata Harvesting. Factors include focus on a defined problem statement, an operational model in which strong leadership is balanced with…

Discusses Web design accessibility from the perspective of a librarian who is legally blind. Explains problems encountered with the growing use of graphics as opposed to text-based sites and suggests steps that librarians can take to help make the Web more accessible. (LRW)

Discusses the need to improve library and information services for the deaf community, describes technological support available, offers current examples and future possibilities, addresses the needs of users with multiple disabilities, considers compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and suggests guidelines for serving the…

Provides an overview of universal Web design and discusses guidelines developed by the Web access initiative (WAI) that focus on the access needs of Web users with disabilities. Highlights include barriers for people with print disabilities or motor impairments; the role of libraries; and resources to assist Web designers. (LRW)

Discussion of the impact of the Internet on libraries focuses on librarians as creators and marketers of new online services. Describes two fee-based online services at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and concludes that academic libraries have the ability to create new online services, especially reference services. (Author/LRW)

Describes the Questia subscription-based online academic digital books library. Highlights include weaknesses of the collection; what college students want from a library; importance of marketing; competition for traditional academic libraries that may help improve library services; and the ability of Questia to overcome barriers and…

Describes the first library-sponsored Electronic Bulletin Board System (BBS), begun in November 1981 at North-Pulaski Branch of Chicago Public Library. Examples of logon routines, menu displays, recent features of the People's Message System, and censorship statements are included. BBS sources (noting address and price) and a nine-item…

Description of the development of a computer-based resource-sharing program in Massachusetts highlights past planning efforts, development of philosophical basis of network, network activities (development and linking of bibliographic databases, document request and delivery procedures, computer literacy/training for librarians), and issues…

Describes the New York State Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Clearinghouse that is run by the New York State Library and discusses hands-on GIS technology used as an enhancement to its reference services. Topics include community building, in-house projects, library database development, outreach, and the future of GIS reference. (LRW)

Discussion of the impact of Australia's geographic isolation focuses on four linked strategies being implemented to position New South Wales public libraries for success in the emerging information economy. Highlights include promoting Internet access; creating client-focused content and services; developing strategic partnerships; and renewing a…

Description of the Kurzweil Reading Machine, which uses a special camera and computer to transform printed matter into synthetic speech; includes reading and sound production, machine operation, adjusting to different typefaces, and limitations. Review of the portable reading aid for the partially sighted, Viewscan, discusses characteristics,…

Discussion of access to electronic resources and library services via Web sites focuses on accessibility barriers to the disabled that have created a digital divide. Topics include legal requirements, including Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act; barriers to implementation; and implementation…

Reviews technological advances of computer and noncomputer services for the deaf community, describes World Wide Web sites and library services that provide information paths for the deaf, and reviews the progress of institutions devoted to deaf education. An appendix lists World Wide Web addresses discussed in the article. (JMV)

Reports on an initiative by the Toronto Public Library to create the "Virtual Reference Library" (VRL). Describes the first service to be offered, a Dewey application called "Science Net." Discusses the VRL and its precursor, objectives, basis for its funding, technical aspects, progress to date and future direction. (AEF)