Special supplement to "Library Journal" and "School Library Journal" covers topics of interest to school, public, academic, and special libraries planning for automation: microcomputer use, readings in automation, online searching, databases of microcomputer software, public access to microcomputers, circulation, creating a…

Seven articles present history and overview of an academic online catalog. Highlights include linking of the library circulation system with the full bibliographic record system; planning and maintenance of an online catalog; effect of the online catalog on reference (uses, services, personnel); and a microcomputer-based user interface. References…

This SPEC (Systems and Procedures Exchange Center) Kit presents the results of a survey of Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member libraries designed to investigate the changes in research library systems operations since 1994 and to identify future trends. A total of 70 of 124 ARL member libraries responded to the survey. A copy of the…

This report summarizes the American Memory User Evaluation conducted during 1991-1993 in over 40 locations around the United States. The findings are based on 1800 user questionnaires, 120 user interviews, and more than 40 site visits by Library staff. American Memory describes the concept of providing electronic versions of selected Library of…

This paper discusses changes at the University of Science and Technology Library (Ghana). The first section provides historical background and summarizes current services, including the collection, the facility, the university's network of faculty/school/institute/center libraries, main library departments, staff, and automation. The next section…

Compares, contrasts, and critiques predictions that have been made about the future of research libraries, focusing on the impact of technology on the library's role and users' needs. The discussion includes models for the adaptation of new technologies that may assist in library planning and change. (38 references) (CLB)

Discusses areas of confusion concerning the role of public libraries that endanger the existence of public libraries. It is argued that the future of the public library depends on its responsiveness to the needs of the people that such libraries were created to serve, and suggestions for achieving this state are offered. (CLB)

Discussion of developments in Nigerian higher education focuses on library services and user expectations. Topics include library automation; currency and timeliness; physical environment; preservation and conservation of library materials; information management; user education; translations to overcome language barriers; and the role of the…

Discusses the basic functions of library systems and their knowledge transfer role in modern societies. Four types of library systems that could arise from new technologies are identified: polymedia, electronic, digital, and virtual. Each of these systems is described, their distinguishing features identified, and their implications discussed.…

Examines issues of leadership as they relate to the new organizational structure in the University of Arizona library precipitated by the current economic crisis, changing information technology and automation opportunities, and changing user needs and expectations. Implications for user services are discussed, including needs assessment and…

Addresses an article written by Nicholson Baker in 1994 that lamented the demise of the paper card catalog, and points out important aspects of online catalogs and library computerization not discussed by Baker: authority control, collection preservation, collection costs, and access to materials. (JKP)

Discusses the challenges and opportunities facing social science academic reference librarians working with researchers in a rapidly changing technological environment. Highlights include faculty relations and training needs; assistance to graduate students, such as suggestions for bibliographic instruction; information products and user…

Presents 12 articles that are abbreviated versions of presentations at the Wilson Symposium on the Future of Public Libraries. Highlights include rural library needs; community needs; librarians' role in planning for community change; cooperating to meet specialized needs; future staffing requirements; distance education; library technology; the…

Describes changes in reference services in academic libraries prompted by new electronic formats and services. Four main areas are discussed: (1) changes in the philosophy of reference services and the types of reference services offered; (2) accessing reference services, including greater direct access by patrons; (3) physical configurations of…

Presents results of a survey of ARL (Association of Research Libraries) members in the United States and Canada that was conducted to discover which electronic reference options are offered and their impact on library services. Online mediated searching, CD-ROM, end-user searching, and local databases are investigated. (nine references) (LRW)