The ability to search and receive results in more than one database through a single interface--or metasearch--is something many users want. Google Scholar--the search engine of specifically scholarly content--and library metasearch products like Ex Libris's MetaLib, Serials Solution's Central Search, WebFeat, and products based on MuseGlobal used…

Discusses the Bertelsmann Foundation's International Network of Public Libraries which was created to facilitate the exchange of experiences among public library experts, to develop innovative methods of library service, and to promote the implementation of new practices in everyday service. Focuses on libraries in Germany, Scandinavia, and…

Report on the 1992 Canadian Library Association (CLA) conference discusses plans for a national summit on information policy, the current situation of public libraries, updating of policy statements, and strengthening CLA. CLA officers and awards are listed. (MES)

The New Americans Program at Queens Borough Public Library (QBPL) is well known for the innovative collections and programs it provides to one of the nation's most diverse communities. What is less known is the rigorous analysis of demographic data that provides direction to the program. Wai Sze (Lacey) Chan uses demographics to create as complete…

Describes a communications, materials booking, and interloan system in a Canadian public library system which allows equal participation of all sizes of libraries. The system has reduced the percentage of requests not found, improved turnaround time, is more cost effective, and has generated a higher respect for resource sharing. (EM)

This essay relates the economic cycle, unemployment, and inflation to reading habits and public library circulation. Highlights include recent English sociological study and its implications for current increases in public library use, future library use, effect of the economy on kind of public library use, and reasons why people read. (EJS)

Explains the revamping of library services in London's East End that will begin with the library buildings being sold and replaced with Idea Stores, positioned in high-density shopping areas. Discusses combining traditional library services with adult education, performance space, daycare, and retail style. (LRW)

If your museum's web exhibition on ancient Egypt has links to circulating books at the public library, chances are the two institutions are collaborating. Most museum and library collaboration in this country has been of this sort--at the local level. Rarely do are statewide or even regional resource collaboration found. Thanks to the digital…

Ask Elizabeth Gale Greenlee why she loves working at Greensboro Public Library's Glenwood facility and she will tell you. "I feel like I'm in the middle of everywhere, because so many people from so many cultures move, breathe, live, and learn in this place," she says. She has met Greensboro residents from 123 cultures, who speak 82 different…

Reports on a survey of international periodicals' cost history, country of origin information, and currency exchange rate to assist in identifying trends in the cost of periodicals and to project costs for the coming year. Tables present cost data by subject, continent/country or origin, and type of library. (SLW)

Re-examines seven major public library central facilities that were built or renovated in the past six years, including Chicago (Illinois), Los Angeles (California), Denver (Colorado), Phoenix (Arizona), San Antonio (Texas) and Vancouver (British Columbia). Topics include coping with crowds; new uses for the libraries; reorganization of space;…

Describes an annual forum of academic and public librarians from the United States and Mexico that discusses common interests such as resource sharing, collection development, and literacy programs and considers longer-range programs. Sidebar articles cover Spanish language publishing in the United States and an annual book fair held in Mexico for…