Explores the information market in the United States from the perspective of information scientists from the Netherlands Council for Libraries and Information Services (RABIN). Highlights include empowering the end user; the new information infrastructure; facilitating access; document delivery; electronic journals; new markets; pricing; and…

Examines the potential for U.S. monopolies in scientific, technical, and medical publications and distribution. Highlights include Europe's position; subsidies from government sources; the role of modern technology; the Internet; the need for European information infrastructures; linking users with producers; issues of copyright and ownership; and…

Discusses virtual libraries, i.e., library services available to users via personal computers; considers the issues of technological development, user demands, and organizational response; and describes progress toward virtual libraries in the Netherlands, including networks, online systems, navigation tools, subject classification, coordination…

Describes the strategic plan developed for reference services offered by OCLC Online Computer Library Center to provide easier access to, and use of, information and knowledge. Topics addressed include the environment of libraries and publishers, including budgets, networks, and pricing, and future plans, including an emphasis on online products.…

Discussion of the relationship between users, librarians, and vendors as it has been influenced by electronic databases and communications networks highlights experiences at Aston University (United Kingdom). Topics addressed include mediated searching; direct user access to databases; impacts on staff; user demand; costs; CD-ROM networks;…