Addresses issues of safety and security in libraries. Topics discussed include keeping library collections safe; patron behavioral problems; factoring loss into the budget; staff theft; access versus security; apathy regarding library crime; a need for a unified security apparatus; preventive measures; staff and patron safety; and a…

Discusses library collection evaluation and its relationship to the acquisitions budget. Topics addressed include the publishing industry; library services that are more user centered; acquisition of versus access to sources of information and knowledge; the concept of value; library accountability; objectives and setting priorities; and levels of…

This Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC) kit presents the results of a survey which focused on the use of remote storage by research libraries as a solution to the shortage of library storage space. The kit includes documents from several libraries describing how they have developed policy questions and procedures to handle the…

Examines possible barriers to adequate reference services to children and young adults. Topics discussed include the effects of budget pressures and shifting priorities in public and academic libraries; equity in access to information; reference policies; communication between children and adult services staff and administration; multiple service…

Discusses the organization of academic libraries and considers the question of centralization versus branch or departmental libraries. Issues that are raised include cost, administrative difficulties, interdisciplinary access, user expectations and demands, the role of faculty, and prospects for the future in light of technological developments.…

Compares academic libraries in Japan and Australia in three areas: general background (number of libraries, financial support, size of collections, and student/staff ratios); the role of libraries (services offered, library instruction, accessibility, library cooperation, and expenditures); and library staffs (qualifications of directors, staff…

This report provides a brief narrative of the activities of the Mississippi Library Commission in fiscal year 1996, featuring discussion of the Role Planning and Setting Study, telecommunications and technology initiatives, and Libraries Online! project. In the process of developing a strategic 5-year plan, the Mississippi Library Commission…