First offered to public libraries in 2004, downloadable audiobooks have grown by leaps and bounds. According to the Audio Publishers Association, their sales today account for 21% of the spoken-word audio market. It hasn't been easy, however. WMA. DRM. MP3. AAC. File extensions small on letters but very big on consequences for librarians,…

Sprucing up the microform reading area, with attention given to the human and environmental aspects discussed here, will contribute to changing users' attitudes from negative to positive regarding this format. (Author)

This essay focuses on the effects of the information revolution and technological advancement on humans, noting themes in George Orwell's "1984," technology insecurity in libraries, technology and control, social interest regulation, ownership of telecommunications lines, technology and humanism, programming people, and effects on…

Discussion of the effect on the workforce of the application of electronic data processing technologies to information handling activities highlights task specialization; white collar alienation; feelings of powerlessness, meaninglessness, and normlessness in workers; the chronology of automation; and experimentation and communication. Nineteen…

Discusses aspects of microcomputer operation that are associated with the human operator and the interface between human and machine or workplace. Work productivity, furniture design (desks, seating), keyboards (shape, layout, and "feel" of keys), and video display terminal screens and lighting are noted. (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)

This essay and 48-item annotated bibliography provide information on potential problems of computer terminal use--cathode ray tube, video display unit, video display terminal--in libraries. Information on ergonomics (matching people to machines in humane way), eyes and vision, and radiation is included. (EJS)

Focusing on online library catalogs as examples of human relationships as they are involved in process of technological innovations, this paper discusses introduction of innovation using a process model based on public policy research (theory) and experiences of Northwestern University with its online catalog (application). Five references are…