People see challenges to libraries in funding, in ebooks, and in the internet. However, in this information-rich age, librarians' roles are even more important. They are information experts. They know how to think about the changing information environment, and they know the impact--both positive and negative--it can have on people whose jobs…

This paper traces the century-long history of a library that has served teacher preparation programs in Calgary, Alberta, since 1909. It looks at how this library's role and collections adapted to shifting notions of what constituted good teacher education and changing economic circumstances. In recounting this history, the paper examines the…

The job of the contemporary reference librarian has a virtual component unimaginable a generation ago. Today's library professional can obtain an MLS (or equivalent) online with a minimal residency requirement. Not only the degree, but also library sources, and indeed patrons, have become virtual. Both books and periodicals can be consulted by…

Supporting the information needs of researchers adequately is a major challenge for university libraries. This paper outlines results of a survey of 23 researchers conducted by Deakin University Library into their information needs and perceptions of the library's role and performance. The survey challenged established ideas about researchers'…

Formed in 1996, Internet2 is a not-for-profit advanced network consortium led by the U.S. research and higher education community. Its goals are to provide leading-edge network capabilities and to facilitate the development, deployment, and use of revolutionary Internet technologies. Starting with 34 universities, Internet2 has grown to more than…

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.…

Discusses librarians and electronic mail, use of Listservs by librarians, libraries on the Internet, redefining online public catalogs, searching databases on the Internet, finding a personal librarian in hyperspace, and the future of libraries on the Internet. (SR)

Presents four articles, originally published in 1934 and 1944, that are considered to be some of the best library writing published in "Library Journal." Topics discussed include functions of libraries and needs for the future; libraries in the new society (A. A. Berle); economic effects on libraries during the Depression (editorial);…

Describes the establishment of the Library of Congress's Center for the Book, which encourages the study of the historical role of books, reading, and libraries, and reviews past and current programs. Highlights include affiliated centers in states; participation of national educational and civic organizations, federal agencies, and academic…

Focuses on the establishment of the first popular lending library in the Netherlands in 1794 and its development until the early nineteenth century. Explores the work of the Society for the Common Benefit and examines the organization of popular lending libraries. (CMK)

Discusses core beliefs held by traditional academic libraries, and how these beliefs represented something of value for the user and provided a common intellectual framework. Identifies disturbing trends in modern librarianship, and suggests libraries need to balance technological knowledge with a respect for traditional library practice, focusing…

The computerized databases that instantly tell if a document exists are not backed up by systems for instantaeously obtaining them. Librarians are spending increasing amounts of time locating and obtaining requested documents. Electronic delivery systems are seen as providing the solution. (MLW)

The computerized databases that instantly tell if a document exists are not backed up by systems for instanteously obtaining them. Librarians are spending increasing amounts of time locating and obtaining requested documents. Electronic delivery systems are seen as providing the solution. (MLW)

Provides an overview of the state of libraries and their resources in Croatia. Highlights include destruction of libraries resulting from the war; the need for centralization, uniformity, and standards; the role of the National and University Library; processing library materials; and the development of an automated system and network. (Contains…

This issue of the biannual "Syracuse University Library Associate Courier" is devoted to covering the world famous collections of adult and continuing education materials held by the Syracuse University Library. It contains five articles: "Laubach in India: 1935-1970" (S. Y. Shah) describes missionary and founder of Laubach…