Librarians are in a unique position to make available programs of dignity which respond to the educational, enrichment, and information needs of individuals who are not in society's mainstream. (Author/LS)

Past studies that apply the sociological definition of professionalism to librarianship are summarized, and recent criticisms of this definition are investigated. Alternative models of professionalism and concepts of theoretical knowledge and service are discussed, and a reexamination of the professional nature of librarians' work is proposed. (23…

Discusses a strategy for improving user access to information in academic libraries by articulating the goals of user education and planning programs accordingly, encouraging students to be critical and analytical in evaluating their information needs, and providing library instruction which makes students feel comfortable in the library…

Orr's schema for measuring the quality and value of libraries is described and discussed with respect to three paradoxes--the evaluation of catalogs, optimal library size, and Lenin's view of public libraries in the U.S. Seven references are cited. (CHC)

Discusses the author's report, "The Future of the National Library of Canada," in terms of its scope, intent, and limitations. (CHC)

Public libraries have vital role to play in introducing computer technology through provision of equipment, programs, and elementary instruction to users of all ages. Creative and resourceful approaches to budgeting and establishing policies and procedures will be required. Canadian public libraries (Oakville, Etobicoke, Aurora, Toronto) provide…

Argues that academic librarians should broaden the concept of education as it applies to their own activity within the academic structure, and suggests that one way of accomplishing this would be to focus on interdisciplinarity and its potential for social change. Thirteen references are listed. (CHC)

Traces the development of the National Library of Canada, focusing on the significance of this history in the context of national development. Future issues facing the library are identified, and the inherent ambiguity of recognizing international standards while protecting a specific national heritage is discussed. (9 references) (Author/CLB)

Argues that in an age of information overload, the public library role is to promote books and reading and warns that public libraries that focus on technologies and information services will become cogs in the engine of material progress rather than fulfilling their role as sources of knowledge. (19 references) (EJS)

This article examines ways in which the profession of teacher-librarianship can be strengthened and enhanced and offers numerous suggestions, including role clarification, strong commitment by teachers and teacher-librarians to cooperative program planning and teaching, a framework for flexible scheduling, and a school-based continuum of research…

Reports the results of a survey that examined the role of small university libraries in Canadian communities. The discussion covers services currently available to communities, areas in which services could be improved or extended, and the benefits to be gained by both the library and the community. (19 references) (Author/CLB)

Describes a survey of library personnel, faculty, and students that examined issues related to the role of libraries in the future design and delivery of distance education. Recommendations are made in the areas of program and course planning, services marketing, resource development, data access, technical communications, services and materials…

Six presentations at joint conference of two Canadian professional associations include two theme speeches (Denis Varloot, Douglas Foskett); synthesis of three theme presentations (Basil Stuart-Stubbs); addresses by current and incoming presidents of Canadian Library Association (CLA) (Beth Miller, Ken Jensen); and a review of CLA services to…