This study explored recent developments related to the application of telecommunications technology in academic and research libraries. The study focused on 4 topics and 10 libraries exemplifying the topics that were selected for case study. The topics and case study libraries are: (1) local area networks--Cornell University and the University of…

Reports on a postconference workshop on virtual libraries that was presented at the third annual Computers in Libraries Canada Conference. Highlights include networks; technological change; administrative issues, including organizational structure, staff training, strategic planning, and financial resources; a case study of the University of…

This report provides an evaluation of the Online at PA Libraries project which was initiated in the Fall of 1996 by the Pennsylvania Department of Education's Office of Commonwealth Libraries and the Schuylkill Intermediate Unit. The report documents that the following goals were accomplished: (1) provide public access to the Internet through…

Rural communities in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have been having problems accessing much needed information, while traditional bodies of knowledge are slowly disappearing as the old generation passes on. This paper argues that the school library is a possible agent to spread information. In addition to providing information to school children and…

Reviews twentieth century programs to enhance literacy outside the schools and describes the activities of a one-day literacy planning session by the Region V Library Cooperative--a not-for-profit multi-type library membership organization of academic, institutional, public school and special libraries. A list of additional readings is provided.…

This case study describes the planning, funding, and implementation of a complete data-wiring renovation at the University of California, Santa Cruz library. Highlights include design principles; project schedule; benefits for staff's electronic mail and network use and for upgraded public terminals; and the importance of planning and…

Discusses planning necessary for library media centers that are adding new technology. Highlights include equity and access; selection of an automated system; implementation; placement of hardware, both for patrons and for staff; CD-ROMs and networks; and a case study of the West Windsor-Plainsboro (New Jersey) Middle School. (Contains five…

This case study describes the use of an information technology vendor conference to assure the smooth opening of a public library in Portland, Oregon. Vendors for hardware, telecommunications, integrated library systems, and networks met with library administration and staff to troubleshoot problems and share information and to ensure a timely…

Presents results of a study undertaken for the state library of Maryland to develop a process for the development of a Maryland Digital Public Library. Highlights include planning; management; implementation requirements; networked environments; technical infrastructure issues; collection development; standards; information content; information…

Describes the management principles used by the Environmental Protection Agency Headquarters Library to develop information services that support the agency's mission. The discussion outlines the steps involved in an action plan for making a special library a major focal point for organizational information services. (CLB)

Libraries have long been pivotal community institutions--public spaces where people can come together to learn, reflect, and interact. Today, information is rapidly spreading beyond books and journals to digital government archives, business databases, electronic sound and image collections, and the flow of electronic impulses over computer…

This report explores the diverse ways that libraries are currently supporting distance learning, both in its traditional and newer Internet-based forms. Based on interviews with administrators and staff, the following "Reports from the Field" reflect developments in public institutions: "UNET (University of Maine System Network)…