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…

While connecting the nation's schools and libraries to the internet by modernizing and expanding the federal E-rate program currently dominates education technology efforts, a new report from the Alliance for Excellent Education urges that adequate broadband access be accompanied by a comprehensive "digital infrastructure" that unlocks…

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…

Communication is only one of the elements in successful inter-library services; also needed are a foundation in mutual support and an agenda for action. The St. Louis (Missouri) Public Library program is described, and pertinent literature is cited. (Author/MB R)

A freeze on $3.28 billion in requests for aid under the federal E-rate program has left hundreds of school districts scrambling to pay for their technology needs--and, in some cases, crippled classroom instruction. The E-rate program, which has disbursed more than $8 billion since its inception in 1997, helps link public and private schools as…

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)

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) in public libraries can contribute to lifelong learning and social inclusion. Its use in libraries is hindered by concerns about privacy, limited resources, and beliefs that free Internet access is justifiable only for information, not communication. CMC in fiction/reader services, family history, community…

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…

Presents a history of library cooperation and technological advancement in North Carolina libraries from the Depression years to the early 1990s. Discusses early library cooperation and development of the North Carolina Information Network (NCIN). Describes the seven task forces on: Bibliographic Database, Document Delivery, Funding, Public…

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)…

Describes the Electronic Information Network, a project created by the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in conjunction with public libraries in Pennsylvania's Allegheny County. The project uses the library's vision, funding, and librarian expertise to provide public access to community information on the Internet. Sidebars present steps and issues…

This introduction to a new column on small automated library systems presents the author's credentials and discusses the topics to be considered, including automation needs of smaller libraries, microcomputer-based systems, network access, implications of automation for administration and staffing, and automation-related problems. (EA)