Provides tips for designing effective training programs for library assistants. Discusses general points to consider; acquainting new assistants with the library; and assigning jobs that reflect assistants' interests. Suggests special projects for assistants including: arranging displays; cataloging; covering paperback and hardback books;…

Describes the impact of automation on the responsibilities of both support and professional staff as well as evolutionary role of library assistants at Texas Tech University. Workflows for retrospective conversion of monographs and serials, current processing techniques, and the organization of the processing units are discussed. (Author/CLB)

Discusses issues related to increases in the scholarly electronic journals collection at Ohio University. Highlights include acquisition; cataloging; questions for the task force; library technology issues; communication; training; collection development; license agreements; and a public services viewpoint to providing access. (AEF)

Explores the emerging role of librarians and support staff members, and the requirements both will have to meet to function effectively. The discussion of practical ideas to help current staff prepare for as yet undefinable responsibilities includes participative management, staff development, and involvement in professional organizations. (10…

This report describes the planning, implementation, and evaluation of a coordinated staff development program to offer certified, non-degree credit to non-professional librarians from small public libraries. Developed through the cooperation of the Central Iowa Regional Library and the Iowa State University Library, the program resulted in a plan…

Libraries' dependence on computers can lead to frustrations for patrons and staff during downtime caused by computer system failures. Advice for reducing the number of crashes is provided, focusing on improved training for systems staff, better management of library systems, and the development of computer systems using quality components which…

Describes three projects that illustrate the range of activities in which Cornell University's Mann Library technical services staff participate, including developing an organizational framework for numeric and full-text databases and bibliographic information for electronic resources. Sidebar articles describe the staff's computer workstations…

Discusses the effects of rapid development and deployment of information processing technology and the aging of the workforce on library technical services. Problems that can result are considered, and ergonomic solutions, training, change management, and the avoidance of stereotypes are advocated. (Contains nine references.) (EAM)

The automation administrators of 49 recently automated libraries were interviewed regarding staff and user training for the systems. Discussion focuses on training objectives and procedures, timing and effectiveness, problems encountered, and factors necessary for training success. Vendor perspectives on library needs for detailed and customized…

School media programs in a variety of settings within the state of Georgia that have proven to be successful are described in this publication from the Georgia Department of Education. For each entry, the school, media center, and specific program component of interest are described. The components include: (1) modernization of a media center…