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 three publications as guides for evaluating library reference services and the potential of one for the development of children's services. Highlights include public library planning, limitations, output measures for children's materials and information services, and the library role. (AEF)

Describes the history of consortia and cooperative efforts among libraries and their role in distance learning in higher education. Discusses shared online catalogs; purchases of electronic resources; supporting distance learners' information needs, including virtual reference; staff training; change management; cooperative planning; vendor…

Examines the current state of cooperative reference services through a review of the literature and interviews with librarians involved in cooperative services. Topics discussed include the need for cooperative reference services; structure, staffing, and funding; the use of communications technology; and factors to consider in planning…

Presents an administrative overview on planning needed to implement information technology-based reference and instructional services in academic libraries. Discusses staffing; troubleshooting; fund raising and budget development; consortia and digital resources; and the need for continuing education. (LRW)

Discusses first three steps of a general model for use in planning and implementing innovative programs in organizations: identifying problem, forming task force, finding out more about problems. Application and evaluation of model at large academic library to investigate receptivity of faculty to increased teaching activities by librarians is…

Lists and discusses six journal articles written by Charles Bunge that discuss influences on statewide public library planning; the history of the University of Wisconsin library school; a tribute to Herbert Goldhor's work in public library service and administration and in scientific research in librarianship; and reflections on reference…

Includes 89 references to materials relating to accountability and evaluation of library reference services. Highlights include research; statistics; planning; user studies; decision making; school libraries; public libraries; academic libraries; and standards. (LRW)

An econometric model of library reference service is suggested for revision and improvement of current services. Discussion focuses on costs and budgets, expanding needs, and community support. (AEF)

Describes the use of paraprofessional library staff at Aurora Library (Colorado) to teach part of the bibliographic instruction sessions. Highlights include strategic planning, revising the library instruction program to incorporate reduction and still meet the students' educational needs, staff attitudes, and program evaluation and changes. (LRW)

Narrates experiences at Randolph Macon College Library in instituting an online search service and offers suggestions to those considering starting service. Proposals, equipment, selecting vendors, search aids, training, planning, policy, promotion, population served, uses and effectiveness, impact on workload and interlibrary loan, and records…

Discussion of planning for reference service focuses on assessing past practices and statistics of past use to help plan for the future. Topics addressed include identifying an organizational goal and staff training, including professionals and nonprofessionals. (Contains 13 references.) (LRW)

Discusses library reference services. Topics include the historical development of reference services; instruction in library use, particularly in college and university libraries; guidance; information and referral services and how they differ from traditional question-answering service; and future concerns, including user fees and the planning…

Describes the general situation of information services in rural public libraries in the context of the changing nature of rural America. Highlights include the development of rural communities and libraries; public expectations and information needs; barriers to information access; and examples of successful rural reference services. (Contains 31…

Discusses three major roles of the academic library reference department manager: managing reference personnel, including training, communication, performance evaluation, and conflict resolution; implementing new technologies, including assessment of users' needs; and leadership and planning for future changes, including strategic planning,…