Examines the use of databases as back-ends to creating library Web pages and seeks to provide a starting point for interested librarians. Explores advantages of this approach, suggests possible library applications, gives examples based on experiences at Ohio State University libraries, and provides a list of Web resources. (Author/LRW)

Describes the design and operation of a system that resulted from a project undertaken by a small specialized library to provide self-help for patrons seeking reference assistance. The areas of information available on the system are described, including standard reference titles, library holdings and services, reserve readings, and placement…

Compares a digital reference service that uses instant messaging with traditional, face-to-face reference based on experiences at the Southern Illinois University library. Addresses differences in reference questions asked, changes in the reference transaction, student expectations, bibliographic instruction, and librarian attitudes and procedures…

Using the experiences at the Vanderbilt University libraries as illustrations, this article addresses several concerns faced by libraries as they implement CD-ROM technology: (1) funding issues; (2) using multiple discs; (3) networking; (4) staff training; (5) end user training; (6) CD-ROM, print, and online differences; and (7) product…

Outlines the service rationale, software and technology considerations taken by the Pennsylvania State University library in planning towards online, real-time reference services and provides an overview of the planned pilot project. Discusses recent trends in academic electronic libraries, including providing value-added services to support…

Describes goals, background, and steps of the RIDDLE project (Rapid Information Display and Dissemination in a Library Environment), a study of the use of scanning technology in libraries. Project results show that it is possible to extract bibliographic information from the contents page of journal articles and to include this information in…

Describes an Edinburgh-based research project that is exploring issues related to reference work in digital libraries, the role of reference librarians with remote access users, library networking, and collaborative reference work. User experiences and librarian work patterns are related to the design of a prototype Web-based network reference…

This interview with Ian Winkworth explains the Hybrid Library of the Future (HyLife) project at the University of Northumbria (United Kingdom) that was developed to help achieve integrated access to combined electronic and printed library services. The focus of the project is not on the technology, but on the educational, social, and…

CD-ROM indexes have made students independent library users, but librarians feel that students are not using the technology effectively or critically. Discusses the effect of information technology on library instruction and on librarians' roles. Suggests that library services focus on accessing information instead of controlling it--by creating…

Discusses the concept of electronic workstations and describes four different types: (1) the academic workstation; (2) the reference workstation (i.e., for end users); (3) the information specialist workstation; and (4) the workstation for management information. The creation of a new integrated information center (ICC) is also described. (11…

Discusses concerns at the Arizona State University library regarding inappropriate uses of their public workstations, including Web surfing, personal email, and accessing pornography. Describe data collection techniques, including observation and electronic data collection software, which investigated use and availability data for workstations.…

Reports on a study of distance learning students in library and information science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign that investigated what they need and want from library services. Highlights include library materials; librarians and staff; training and support; appropriate technology use; library role; and working with the…

Describes the historical development of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences Library, and examines the future of scientific libraries in a digital era. Discusses technological changes in the library's policies, services, and organization, and presents an economic analysis of these changes. A sidebar summarizes the library's steps…

Examines the effects of CD-ROM on academic library reference work. Topics discussed include the impact on job duties of the reference librarian; impact on users; system drawbacks; location of equipment; search strategies of users versus librarians; budgetary concerns; and future ramifications, including networking and electronic publishing. (10…

Describes distance education experiments that studied delivery of library services directly to homes, and delivery via local study centers or libraries. Findings show that electronically transmitted documents could be delivered to homes using low-cost technology and that study centers or libraries could provide services to those who could not…