In a time when information self-service and enhanced competition have sent libraries of all types into an oftentimes desperate search for a renewed sense of purpose, a fundamentally important question takes center stage: How can libraries connect with the deepest aspirations of their service communities? This article describes a new library…

Distinguishes between Knowledge and Information, emphasizes the importance of the distinction and the dangers of failing to recognize it, and argues for defining libraries as "Fortresses of Knowledge." (JD)

There is a distinction to be made between knowledge and information. Knowledge is orderly and cumulative; information is random and miscellaneous and may be collected simply because it is there. The information industry is flourishing, but knowledge institutions--colleges, universities, and libraries--go begging. The knowledge industry is actually…

The article links the roles of libraries and professional library staffs to the newly emerging consciousness of the "library rights" of blind and print handicapped persons throughout the world. (Author)

Discusses theoretical conceptions of the library and suggests that modern conceptions are informed by a view of knowledge grounded in early twentieth-century positivism. The view of scientific knowledge developed by Michael Foucault is described, and possibilities for the creation of new knowledge are considered. (75 references) (LRW)

This discussion of the concept of knowledge reports findings about learning, particularly learning styles and strategies, and explores the potentials and limits of new technologies in the library. The library's role as a "convivial tool" which can enlarge the range of each person's competence is noted. Thirty-four references are…

While libraries have the basic responsibility of collecting, documenting, and organizing information, they also have a bigger responsibility to societal elements of public policy, political theory, social trends, and cultural values. This article introduces the theme of this issue, which discusses libraries and society in relation to these bigger…

Examines the changing roles of libraries and librarians in the information age, emphasizing the impact of technology. It is suggested that librarians should assert themselves as providers of information in a human context. Nine references are listed. (MES)

Focuses on role of library and agencies charged with provision of information in an environment of technological change. Predictions concerning aspects of the emerging information society (computer literacy, home computers), the death of libraries, and effects of a paperless society on libraries in developing countries are noted. Footnotes are…

Examines in detail the aims, forms, and methods of USSR library services provided for children, including information and bibliographical assistance, as well as the main areas of research being conducted in this field by Soviet specialists. (CWM)

Argues that a librarian's traditional roles--keeper and retriever of knowledge, readers' advisor, information specialist--are most valid in the experiential learning process. As a place that voluntarily attracts many patrons who lack higher education, the library can serve as a "broker" between them and the educational institutions.…

Suggests that the virtual library is an impossibility and the ideal of an all-encompassing solution is unrealistic. Current roles of libraries as places for personal enrichment and places to learn more about things will merge with the new technologies to make the library a constantly evolving institution. (JKP)

Advocates a close collaboration and cooperation between teachers and librarians in all school systems, especially at the elementary level. Demonstrates how, through creativity and energetic cooperation, librarians can play a central role in the ongoing curriculum reform movement. (HB)

The nation's schools and libraries have come up with shelves full of innovative twists on the basic book club. This article offers a few of these fun and educational ideas that can be adapted for everyone from young beginning readers to teens. Teachers and librarians describe book club activities that they have found successful in: bringing…

Discusses "educational suitability,""pervasive vulgarity," political intent, the difference between the selection and removal of library books, and censoring books without removing them from the library (zoning through "educational suitability" and age appropriateness). (CT)