Discusses the 10 questions most frequently asked concerning the installation of public library online services. Equipment considerations (choice of equipment, maintenance arrangements, baud rate), choice of databases and vendors, budgets, fees, training, elimination of printed tools, and promotion of the service are covered. (EJS)

Examines special-purpose entry points to library Web sites. Discusses in-house homepages; branch-specific pages or single library system-wide pages; staff use pages; versions in different languages; "MyLibrary" pages where users can customize the menu; standalone "branded" sites; publicly accessible pages; and best practices.…

This article describes how librarians stepped up to the plate to rescue materials and meet the needs of thousands of uprooted evacuees from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, employing their unique skills and resources to put forth a humane and herculean effort. In Houston and Austin, Texas; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Memphis; Fayetteville, Arkansas; and…

Discusses results of a survey of factors influencing database use in public libraries. Highlights the importance of content; ease of use; and importance of instruction. Tabulates importance indications for number and location of workstations, library hours, availability of remote login, usefulness and quality of content, lack of other databases,…

Examines how librarians are customizing their services and collections for handheld computing. Discusses the widest adoption of PDAs (personal digital assistants) in libraries that serve health and medical communities; PDA-friendly information pages; the reference focus; journals and databases; lending materials; publicity; use of PDAs by library…

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 change of library music collections from long-playing (LP) recordings to compact discs (CD). Highlights include the drawbacks of LPs, disc prices and players, sound quality, logistics, selection of recordings, and a renewed commitment to sound recording facilities and collections. Ten sources are given. (EJS)

The formulation of a design for a library reference desk is discussed, basic planning considerations, height, and measurements of the desk, lighting and chairs, placement of the desk, prebuilt components, and evaluation. A six-item bibliography is included. (EJS)

Relates experiences of University of Rochester's main library during complete renovation of the central reference department including the addition of a full-service reference station. Topics covered include planning the reference station, solutions to seven design requirements, increase in staffing and reference questions after one year, and…

Discusses the installation of a communication satellite dish at the Bloomington Public Library (Illinois). Highlights include rationale for the purchase, uses of teleconferencing, technical questions, interference and licensing, locating the dish, selecting a vendor, equipment and installation, publicity and use of the dish, and plans for the…