Some reasons why society is evolving from formal communication based on print or paper to communication channels which are largely paperless (electronic) are discussed. A scenario for a paperless communication system is presented, and some technological achievements that lend credibility to it are described. (Author/JAB)

Information technology plays a role both in library administration and in the use of information resources. Viewed in historical perspective, the "computer era" is just beginning, and the prospect of the "electronic book" is good. Librarians must be computer-literate and lead students and the public in the use of new…

Recent trends in information science literature are discussed. (PF)

This critique of prevalent conceptual methodologies in research in library administration examines the current research methodologies, relates them to the positivistic orientation of some social scientists, indicates why they are inappropriate, and suggests how research in library administration can be made more meaningful and relevant.…

Cites a new requirement at Purdue University that consideration for promotion and tenure for librarians be based on publications in library/information science rather than other fields in which they may have degrees. A survey of ARL libraries indicates that few academic libraries currently support this position. Five references are listed. (RAA)

Reviews and describes the current crisis in science literacy and formulates an information-based definition of the term. Library issues and concerns are discussed, including the role of librarians in defining the information-seeking behavior of science-literate users, describing users' characteristics, and evaluating and applying appropriate…

Analyzes definitions of information literacy by reviewing library and information science literature of the 1970s and 1980s. The response of the information profession to the expanding range of skills and knowledge required for information literacy is noted. Three main trends in information literacy from the literature of the early 1990s are…

On the eve of a major change in communications media (from printing to widespread electronic publishing), this article reexamines and projects into future the library's fundamental role as a social institution. Discussion covers three environmental trends, library as an institution, and public policy and economic choices. Twenty references are…

Describes results of a citation analysis of library and information science journals that was conducted to identify factors associated with subjective rankings of a journal's value in promotion and tenure decisions. Discussion covers citation measures used; hypotheses tested; and correlations between prestige rankings--from a survey of research…

Describes a study that obtained assessments of the status of research in library and information science from leading researchers in the field. Five key issue areas affecting the status of research are identified and specific recommendations are offered to address these issues and improve the status of research in this area. (31 references)…