Utilization of telecommunications and computer technology to increase access to information is identified as a primary goal for public libraries. To further service in the future, libraries should consider database services, online access to library resources, online community conferencing, community databases, network resource sharing,…

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…

This essay addresses access to information through the use of computer networking systems. Highlights include national commercial networks, bulletin board systems, cautionary notes on networking, the role of the public library in providing a link between the computer and the public, and maximizing access and efficiency through library services.…

Although originally compiled and published for the California Library Telecommunications Project (an analysis of the telecommunications needs and opportunities for the California State Library on behalf of the state's 169 public libraries), this report also cites examples of, and proposes options for, electronic text use in public libraries…

The purpose of this research was to explore the possible roles and responsibilities that public libraries might assume in the National Information Infrastructure (NII). Data was collected from September 1994 through June 1995, relying on the following data collection techniques: focus groups, personal interviews, survey data analysis, case…

This article discusses similarities between the local bulletin board system (BBS) and the public library. Highlights include components of the small BBS (system operator, host computer, "messaging" software, auto-answer device, connection to one or more phone lines); uploading and downloading; notes from the board; and the role of the…

Analyzes demographic and socioeconomic trends of rural areas and discusses the role of public libraries in providing access to the information highway via telecommunications. Topics include the importance of access to information for successful economic development, agricultural dependency, poverty, retirement destination areas, and proximity to…

Discusses telecommunications in Mississippi and efforts to ensure equal access. Highlights include the development of the telecommunications infrastructure and the various levels of involvement of the Mississippi Library Association, institutions of higher learning and community colleges, the Department of Education, and public libraries. (LRW)

President Clinton discusses issues affecting libraries and explains his administration's plans regarding them. Addresses connecting educational environments to the Internet, the Communications Decency Act, the Federal Communications Commission, the Telecommunications Act of 1996, and rates for "universal service." Describes federal…

Examines the gap between developing communication technologies available to the public and the public's ability to employ them. Highlights include the federal government's policy on universal Internet access; factors that negatively affect public library involvement in Internet access; and elements involved in clarifying the role of public…

Discussion of access to the Internet focuses on access by public libraries. Topics addressed include the role of the public library; computer and information networks; the National Information Infrastructure; the NREN (National Research and Education Network); the telecommunications industry; federal legislation; costs; file transfer protocol; and…

Official opening statements, organizational reports, and papers on libraries in a technological world, which were presented at the 1983 International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) conference include: (1) welcoming addresses by Franz Georg Kaltwasser and Mathilde Berghofer-Weichner; (2) opening speeches by Else Granheim (IFLA president)…

Discusses information literacy in the emerging information age, describes the Internet, and reviews the role of public library trustees in helping to provide access to the information superhighway. Topics include providing equal access to the Internet; staff training; adequate funding; and the leadership role of librarians. (LRW)

Explains the development of library networks in Florida and the role of the state library. Topics include regional multitype library consortia; a statewide bibliographic database; interlibrary loan; Internet access in public libraries; government information, including remote public access; automation projects; telecommunications; and free-nets.…

Many futurists envision that the development of information technology will greatly impact the libraries of tomorrow. In response to this prediction, the Montgomery County (Maryland) Department of Public Libraries conducted a study of key trends and issues that the Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) must consider if they are to remain a…