As virtual worlds continue to proliferate globally, libraries are faced with the question of whether to provide information services to virtual patrons. This study, utilizing a mixed-method approach of interviews, focus groups, and surveys, represents one of the largest studies of virtual libraries attempted to date. Taking a holistic perspective,…

Designed for use in a post-masters level course in library science, this model presents background information about the hypothetical library which is the context for the role-playing and in-basket exercises of a governmental library simulation. An organization chart, operations manual, annual report, and other documents serve to convey…

Describes the emphasis of decision support systems as being on the decision making process itself, rather than the flow of information; reviews the uses of microcomputers in libraries in recent years; and compares five decision modeling software packages. An appendix lists the name, manufacturer's address, price, and hardware requirements of each…

Describes a simulation language--the Integrated Network System (INS)--which lends itself to modeling library operations and presents a simulation in which the circulation department of a university library was subjected to 10- and 20-percent increases in public demand and the efficiency and human resource needs of the department were analyzed.…

This is the second and final year report on the CLASP (Central Massachusetts Library Administration Simulation Project) which developed and tested a simulation model that would enable library personnel to learn and practice skills of negotiation, decision making, budgeting, and program planning. Specific program objectives were: (1) to upgrade the…

A survey of library directors and assistant/associate directors at the 19 campuses of California State University (CSU) revealed a number of factors mitigating against the implementation of assessment center programs for the development of academic library managers. Respondents were asked in a questionnaire to describe their attitudes toward…

Designed for use in a post-master's level course in administration of the federal special library, this guide provides instructions for the teacher in simulation techniques plus suggested problems and materials. Suggestions are given for classroom management of the "Governmental Library Simulation." A briefing guide, a debriefing guide, and…

Planned as part of a post-master's level course in the administration of federal special libraries, this resource log is the student's personal workbook for use during his participation in the "Governmental Library Simulation." The student is assumed to have a master's degree and some introductory experience in administration. The log introduces…