Twitter is a microblogging site, one where users send out messages of no more than 140 characters. The messages, known as tweets, can be seen by anyone who follows the account. Twitter is free, but free as in kittens, not as in pizza. To use it effectively, it will take time to learn the language and develop content. When used effectively, Twitter…

A look at the color, style, dreams, and nightmares of several West Coast libraries, with particular emphasis on the Seattle, Los Angeles, and San Francisco areas. Brief notes on Southern California Answering Network and Bay Area Reference Center. (LS)

This second statewide public library systems directory includes 15 cooperative and three single jurisdiction library systems organized under the California Library Services Act (CLSA) together with their associated library networks, and the regional reference centers or networks serving more than one system organized as demonstration projects…

Describes the background of and the concept, and purpose of a local file in the Pikes Peak Library District's community resource and information system. The year established, scope and function, and sample records are reviewed for the nine files that currently comprise the system. (two references) (MES)

An overview of scientific and technical information networks in Great Britain. (JG)

Background description, project summary of the first year, results of a survey of project participants, and second year summary are included in this final report of the Human Resources Information Network (HRIN) project of the Bridgeport Public Library. Objectives, activities, budget, and planning are reported for this project, which was designed…

The design and study of library information networks are enhanced by the use of the concepts which have been developed by graph theorists. In this paper this theme is expanded upon, proposing a general network structure which is believed to be a good model for a wide variety of library and other information networks. The basic concepts from graph…

The objectives of this Institute are to: (1) understand basic factors in the building of public library systems; (2) become familiar with the Wisconsin social, governmental and fiscal bases in relation to which library systems may develop and (3) consider methods by which an area can build a library system. Major topics presented include: (1)…

Public library services are being modified or changed by the Internet. Questions about how to evaluate and measure electronic services have become increasingly important. This article presents an analysis of some ways to create, define, and institute electronic network measures. (Author/AEF)

Increasing demands for more information more quickly has called into serious question the traditionally fragmented nature of library service by creating a need for greater interlibrary cooperation. Libraries have responded to this need by the formation of networks which are nothing more nor less than a formalized tool for interlibrary cooperation.…

The basic thrust of the planning and operation of the research project reported here was to investigate methods of accelerating the development of a climate of receptivity to new influences in the emerging and vital area of networking, to which the Ohio library community has a recorded commitment and whose impact will create a new perspective, and…

In 1976 the annual growth rate of interlibrary loans and network referrals within the Northeastern Ohio Library Association (NOLA) increased by 14%. In addition $18,000 from project grants has allowed NOLA to add 1,196 volumes to local collections. The annual report cites statistics and includes local library reports to demonstrate the growth of…

Explores the feasibility of a centralized, networked reference service in a library setting by comparing traditional reference services at the County of Los Angeles Public Library with a commercial inbound call center. Discusses costs and efficiency when librarians answer questions able to be handled by paraprofessionals. (Author/LRW)

With fiber optic networks that can deliver library materials directly to the user from computerized data banks, is there any need for the library function? For the short term, public libraries will survive. The answer for the medium and long-term is much less certain. Libraries will survive if librarians see themselves as active providers of…

Describes the first library-sponsored Electronic Bulletin Board System (BBS), begun in November 1981 at North-Pulaski Branch of Chicago Public Library. Examples of logon routines, menu displays, recent features of the People's Message System, and censorship statements are included. BBS sources (noting address and price) and a nine-item…