Offers a new approach to evaluating reference librarians, as well as a new standard of evaluation based on a study of exemplary reference librarians that was conducted via electronic networks. Characteristics of exemplary reference librarians relating to attitude, professional skills, and interpersonal skills are described. (Contains 28…

Discusses the availability of computer conferences on the Internet and their practical benefits to librarians, including problem solving, sharing employment information, conducting surveys, discussing new products and services, and announcing conferences and meetings. (two references) (EA)

Guest columnist Paul D. Healey discusses World Wide Web as an Internet reference tool for librarians in adult reference services. Discussion highlights include an examination of Web uses in retrieving hypertext documents, a review of Web uses in law libraries, an analysis of quality control problems, and challenges faced by users. (JMV)

Explores ways for librarians to improve search strategies in a globally networked computing environment. Discusses browsing versus more structured search strategies; thinking processes and information-seeking processes; supplementing the traditional reference interview with computer-based reference assistants; models for automating the reference…

Explores the legal ramifications of malpractice among librarians and the possible impact on services due to fear of being sued. Topics include identification of potential malpractice areas; cooperative electronic reference services; use of reference standards; insurance; contract; disclaimer; updating library collections; using Internet resources;…

Geared toward librarians who frequently work with faculty and graduate students, this paper summarizes the experience of the library at the University of Southern California in organizing and conducting several subject specific workshops on using the Internet as a research medium. It examines the practical issues on how to approach the task of…

Describes an evaluation of a CD-ROM wide-area network at the University of Pittsburgh libraries. Reference staff were interviewed on their use of and satisfaction with the network; student assistants were asked about the type and amount of user assistance they provide; and users were surveyed. Suggestions for future enhancements are offered.…

Twelve articles describe the impact of library technologies on reference services. Staff training, the academic librarian as teacher and information provider, decision-making models for planning reference services, patron database access options, management of reference services, systemwide electronic access, and the electronic library are among…

Examines visions of libraries in 23 science fiction novels aimed at young adult readers. Aspects of librarianship explored include physical environment or building; reference and user services; networking and data transfer; librarians; electronic publishing and material format; and copyright, user fees, and freedom of access to information.…

This review of the evolution of reference services in the library of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga begins with background information on the university and a brief description of the library's holdings and services. The mission of the library is stated, and it is noted that automation began with internal technical operations in 1983.…

Three articles discuss the issue of the mediator's role in the library of the electronic age. Topics addressed include computer-assisted instruction; online catalogs; computer networks; professional identity; reference service and bibliographic instruction; CD-ROMs; online systems; personal home microcomputers; Internet and list servers;…