Describes the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and discusses its implications for both public and private libraries. The term "disability" is defined; sources of federal regulations that pertain to libraries are cited; the need for sign language interpreters is discussed; Braille materials are considered; and staff requirements are…

Discussion of care and planning given to the implementation of an automated library system highlights informing the staff in the early stages, project management, involvement of the entire staff, the control log, time and money, where and when to go online, and implementation consultants. (EJS)

Summarizes results of a survey on the value of the corporate library and presents a strategy for successful information management: (1) learn the information needs of senior executives; (2) be businesslike; (3) defend your turf; (4) segment the market; (5) market to those who need information; and (6) be involved in the business. (Three…

Three articles on library buildings present Library Journal's annual architectural survey of completed public and academic library buildings and library projects in progress; guidelines for leasing a shared library facility, and a description of a successful public library building project in Michigan are also discussed. (EM)

Discussion of laser videodiscs for library collections covers selection, finding reviews, suppliers, cost, preservation, and security. Sidebars define laserdisc terms and list several recommended titles. (MES)

Examines options for buying microcomputers (the manufacturer or his/her representative, computer stores, general retail stores, mail order, system integrators, traditional vendors, second-hand). Three major factors are considered: support before sale; price/cost; and support after sale. Advantages and disadvantages of each option and…

This third article in a series dealing with libraries' compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act addresses architectural considerations, including library furnishings; accessibility problems outside the library building; architectural barriers in library interiors; and responsibilities of public and private entity libraries. (LRW)

Discusses the concept of Afrocentrism and presents the arguments of several scholars for and against the role of Afrocentrism in education. Implications for librarians are considered, and guidelines for related collections and services are offered. Major African studies repositories and suggested titles for Afrocentric collections are listed. (MES)

Discussion of videocassette lending by public libraries emphasizes the need for a video policy and discusses: (1) needs assessment; (2) planning; (3) the new video client; (4) workload; (5) budget; (6) access for minors; and (7) competition with video stores. (four references) (MES)

Guidance for libraries in implementing the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 is provided in question and answer format. Topics covered include library services and materials, employment issues, and parking requirements. (LAE)

Discusses library resources for genealogical research, including bibliographies of family histories, guides to genealogical resources, periodicals, indexes, CD-ROM products, electronic bulletin boards, and nonprofit services. An annotated list of 13 titles for a basic collection is included. (MES)

Considers site requirements that should be specified by the library and the vendor for a library automated system located at a central site away from the library, including size of site, the environment, cleanliness, electrical power, security/safety (fire, restricted access), site certification, telecommunications, and terminal sites. (EJS)

This essay illustrates a technique for reducing the risks of capital investment decisions involving considerable sums for advanced technologies by considering its application to a problem that arises frequently in selection of automated library systems. Incomplete information, using available information, selecting a system, and consultants are…

Defines copyright and examines the interests of computer software publishers. Issues related to the rights of libraries in the circulation of software are discussed, including the fair use principle, software vendors' licensing agreements, and cooperation between libraries and vendors. An inset describes procedures for internal auditing of…

Reports results of a survey of large public libraries on incidents of muscular-skeletal injuries associated with use of computer keyboards in libraries. Personnel policies and practices that can minimize injuries are outlined. Sidebars describe the importance of adjustable workstations, steps that employees can take to minimize injuries, and…