There are universal elements to great videos and games that drive large audiences: beautiful cinematography and graphics, engaging and purposeful screenplays and storylines, unforgettable soundtracks, and a brand name that makes viewers and players want to return for more. Libraries can, and should, employ these elements in their own videos to…

This report explores the world of e-books and libraries, where libraries fit into these book-consumption patterns of Americans, when people choose to borrow their books and when they choose to buy books. It examines the potential frustrations e-book borrowers can encounter when checking out digital titles, such as long wait lists and compatibility…

Regardless of whether cell phones remain the dominant platform or Wi-Fi becomes the prevalent platform, there are some things that libraries can do to improve patron service in light of evolving expectations, behaviors, and tools. People today are more nomadic, which leads to the very real possibility of having to deliver content not just to the…

Reviews the historical development of libraries and the evolution of the information industry to describe the impact of information technology upon libraries. Opportunities for librarians are illustrated by practical suggestions for transition from a library to an information context. (RAA)

Discusses the introduction of new technologies into library activities, focusing on benefits, expectations, staff, services, comparison of situations before and after adoption of new technology, costs, funding, and economic considerations. Thirteen references are cited. (EJS)

Describes recent technological developments which are making libraries increasingly accessible to the deaf and hearing impaired. (LLS)

This paper traces the expansion of the Internet into Russian and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) libraries from basic access to the development of World Wide Web (WWW) servers. An analysis of the most representative groups of library WWW-servers arranged by projects, by corporate library network, or by geographical characteristics is…

This discussion of the impact of electronic developments on the dissemination of information and the role of the library argues that a central role as a switching center and information consultant will be critical to the survival of the library in the rapidly evolving electronic information environment. (CHC)

Advocates replacing the traditional library card catalog with a more effective system. Technological developments such as machine-readable catalogs, automated authority control, and computer-output-microform make possible integration of nonbook media, government documents, journal literature, and local information into the main catalog. (SW)

Presents overview of developments in telecommunications, noting their effects on the role of the library as information center. Television growth, videodisc technology, library uses for interactive videodisc (storage and display of mixed media, programed instruction, storage of visual materials, and text), videotex, and teletext are highlighted.…

Intended to inform librarians and educators about the technology-based delivery systems likely to affect education and librarianship in the near future and to persuade them to reap the benefits of these systems, this paper provides a non-technical review of telecommunications and media technologies. The relationship between technology and change…

The effects upon libraries of the major social changes of the past two decades and the probably future effects of such changes are analyzed in this report, based upon a search of the professional literature, a field survey, and opinion sampling from leaders in the library profession and civic leaders belonging to the National Book Committee. Five…

One major impact on the library service system of the management arts, the split between the traditional public service and technical departments, should be reconsidered. Technology such as photocopying, TWX, and long distance photocopying also has an impact on the service system. Data base service must be considered a routine biomedical reference…

Discusses the impact of local online databases on library reference services, including their integration with remote files such as Dialog, Orbit, and the Information Bank. Online catalog databases, multiple local databases (analytics for journal articles, indexes), and batch processing of data are noted. Six references are cited. (EJS)

Changes in library services due to advancing information technology constitute a revolution comparable to invention of the printing press. Democratization of access to knowledge is a positive development, but it should not be confused with democratization of knowledge. This is where any system of information networking may be misleading; in…