In the case of libraries, archives, and museums (LAMs), the concept of convergence has become commonplace in recent time. Convergence addresses both physical spaces and the services provided. What is currently known as convergence within these institutions, should perhaps more accurately be described as reconvergence, as "in the late 1800s…

According to Stearns (2009), culture shapes childhood. The way a society defines culture shapes: (a) how childhood is constructed; (b) the production of literary products and services for young people; and (c) training for library professionals. In 21st century America, children are viewed as a vulnerable population in need of protection, as…

How translational researchers use data is becoming an important support function for libraries to understand. Libraries' roles in this increasingly complex area of Web librarianship are often unclearly defined. The authors conducted two focus groups with physicians and researchers at an academic medical center, the UCLA David Geffen School of…

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…

Pay equity, as a concept and outcome, is significant for libraries and librarians because it demonstrates the value of the library and information profession, and the significance of the work undertaken by librarians and allied professionals. The State Library's involvement in the NSW Pay Equity Case and precursor investigations into the worth of…

If there is to be a great debate" within librarianship, statement or restatement of objectives should be the starting point, not the possibilities of applying computers to libraries and information. If professional persons are to have influence over the future of society, a great debate must soon begin. (2 references) (Author/NH)

Libraries have long functioned as institutions which exerted wide-ranging cultural-social activity as determined by the economic and cultural needs of society. Librarianship as an educational factor has become increasingly important during the past half century with respect to its quantitative growth and its quality world-wide. Although the school…

Two main traditions now operate in philosophy, influencing the choice about which theories are appropriate in library and information science (LIS). A third tradition, known as process philosophy, gives prominence to human knowledge as an organically integrated, self-sustaining whole, thereby opening another avenue for the effort to revitalize…

The development of cable television, its present state, and future prospects, including a possible role for libraries, are discussed. (Other conference materials are LI 503071 and 503073 through 503084.) (SJ)

Discussion of way in which books have functioned within framework of American librarianship highlights acquisition of books (libraries attempting to fill needs of everyone in geographical area, libraries devoted to filling needs of self-selected part of society, libraries devoted to collecting particular subject), and role of private collector of…

Despite setbacks and hazards, libraries today are a more vital and a more appreciated part of our lives than ever before. (Author/NH)

Panel members, who were from different states, discussed existing and future uses of cable television in their libraries. (Other conference materials are LI 503071-503077 and LI 503079 through LI 503084.) (SM)

A scenario was presented depicting interaction among a city councilman, a cable operator, a community organizer, a library director, and a superintendent of media development, all of whom have different concerns and views about cable television. (Other conference materials are LI 503071-503079 and LI 503081 through LI 503084.) (SM)

Library planning for cable television was discussed further by other panel members. (Other conference materials are LI 503071-503081 and LI 503083 and 503084; see specifically LI 503078 for first part of discussion.) (SM)

The library profession's attitude regarding national and international issues, and issues within the profession during the last decade are recalled. (MBR)