Proposes a revised model of a taxonomy for theory building in library and information studies research, called Circuits of Theory, that includes both the taxonomy and the critical contextual modules researchers consider in their work. Encompasses the concepts of individual as well as social knowledge, both discovered and undiscovered. (Author/LRW)

Addresses the issue of epistemology and library and information science by considering Michel Foucault's essay "La Bibliotheque Fantastique" which is a work of literary criticism rather than a scientific analysis. Highlights include implications of the positivist perspective for conceptualizing the modern library experience; and an…

Examines the role of professional standards in fostering good practice in librarianship. Discusses librarian liability theories and malpractice risk; professional conduct, including standards and an enforcement mechanism; professional knowledge; skills or competencies, including the role of library associations; and shared values. (Author/LRW)

Discussion of interdisciplinarity and knowledge growth focuses on some key ideas of social theory, the sociology of the professions, and other sources to outline librarianship's current situation. Highlights include globalization and cultural flow; disciplines and occupations; professionalization; librarianship and knowledge distribution; and the…

Discusses barriers to the implementation of quality management in the library and information science sector in Europe. Topics include Total Quality Management and other business experiences, an information quality infrastructure, supplier/customer relations, customer satisfaction, and a European Quality Model. (LRW)

Questions whether a focus on ethics and rights leads to a narrow idea of the library profession and its clients, using issues of censorship as examples. Highlights include a proposed definition of information; information flow; privacy; ethical debates and consequences for libraries; and the American Library Association Code of Ethics. (Author/LRW)

Six articles address: (1) the impact of science on the physical examination and treatment of books; (2) equipment for physical examination of books; (3) research using the cyclotron for historical analysis; (4) scientific analysis of paper and ink in early maps; (5) recent advances in automation; and (6) cataloging standards. (MES)

This article provides an overview of the development of tribal libraries, the events that have affected them, and their status today. Issues of recruiting and retaining Native American/Alaska Natives within the profession are discussed with suggestions for successful strategies. (Contains 31 references.) (Author)

Examines the writing of significant women in librarianship, education, politics, and publishing who had an influence on children's literature. Their advice to parents in mass market publications is discussed, a feminist perspective is offered, and suggestions for further research are included. (Author/LRW)

Describes the societal and professional, as well as the personal, contexts which motivated the creation of the Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA) and its predecessor, the Asian American Librarians Caucus/Association (AALC/A). Includes profiles of the Asian/Pacific American library leaders who established these organizations and…

Reviews the brief history of Chinese Americans in the United States and their contributions to librarianship. Describes the origin, purpose, programs, and activities of the Chinese American Librarians Association. (Contains 44 references.) (AEF)

Examines historical reasons for the reference desk and workers to establish how reference work has been circumscribed, describes how it has evolved, and attempts to define perimeters between tasks and duties of paraprofessionals and professionals. Highlights the Williamson Report (1923) on training for library services and considers how practices…

Argues that librarianship, which is intimately involved with the communication of knowledge, is thereby deeply involved with the mind-body problem of philosophy, and that this relationship constitutes the major philosophical issue of the library profession in this century. Psychophysical interactionism is discussed in the context of philosophy of…

Describes the development, operation, and services of a special unit at the Chicago Public Library that provides reference and research services to professional librarians. Specific reference materials, online databases, and current awareness services are covered. The selection and acquisition of library materials is discussed in some detail. (21…

Divides librarianship into three categories with respect to change--library values, library technology, and library science--and discusses each in the context of changes in the last century to provide a basis for forecasting future changes. The broadening scope of librarianship and the library school curriculum of the future are also considered.…