Defines and describes formal cooperative library reference services and discusses the major variables that produce differences in cooperative reference networks: size, composition, funding, services, delivery mechanisms, control methods, and resources. (Author/LLS)

Many of the programs developed by the Library of Congress have been created for the benefit of libraries in the United States, and represent a specialized form of federal aid. (Author)

Survey of 56 public reference librarians from New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania reveals that they perceive reference service as comprising question answering (34 percent); locating information (30 percent); service (17 percent); providing materials (7 percent); aiding readers in library use (4 percent); telephone referral (2 percent); 100 percent…

Examines the theory and application of zero base budgeting (ZBB) and presents an example of ZBB in an academic library reference department, illustrating the preparation of a budget proposal and demonstrating the different approaches to staffing for reference services and varying funding levels. (FM)

Identifies the advantages and limitations of online search services offered by libraries, cautioning the searcher and user to consider and evaluate all options before performing online search. The librarian's responsibility to solve the user's information problem in a desirable way is discussed. Five references are listed. (EJS)

The activities of the Vermont Department of Libraries in library cooperation are outlined. (PF)

Librarians must be alert to the local information needs of library users, and must also develop library instruction programs to help patrons make more effective use of the library. (LS)

In attempt to answer the question of how to measure or evaluate the quality of reference service to youth, this essay examines the literature; defines the terms (reference services and tools, parental concern, library instruction); discusses move toward quality evaluation; and provides options and approaches to such measurement. (EJS)

Describes the introduction of an online searching service at the Phillips Memorial Library, Providence College (Rhode Island). Highlights include the acquisition of a microcomputer, vendor choice, cost considerations, setting up the workstation and establishing procedures, search sessions, and benefits to all elements of college community. Twelve…

The advent of deinstitutionalization and consumer health advocacy has spelled changes in mental health information seeking by general public, by families of mentally ill, and by the mentally ill themselves. Their information needs have implications for academic and public libraries and libraries in psychiatric facilities and general hospitals. (14…

Suggests ways in which school, public, and special libraries can cope with television related demands, from circulating books promoted or dramatized on television to videotaping local events, as well as cooperating with local stations to provide information services to listeners. The current situation of public and cable television is also…

This article describes how a model developed by the British Library can be used in school libraries to disseminate community information to students. Definitions are given and possibilities, problems, and advantages associated with the delivery of community information in school environments are outlined. Thirteen references are cited. (Author/EJS)

Describes existing library services for disabled individuals at libraries in the Chicago area, and discusses issues that need to be addressed in planning for such services; e.g., financial support, accessibility, adjusting services to patron needs, mainstreaming, and outreach programs. (19 notes with references) (CLB)

Describes strategies used by reference librarians to provide service to the developmentally disabled, including reference service to volunteer and professional service providers, specialized information networks, information and referral services, and key reference tools. Deinstitutionalization, normalization, the developmental model, and least…

An academic librarian answered 24 questions using reference books, then tried to answer the same questions using an Internet search engine (Metacrawler). Evaluates the results of the Internet searches and discusses implications for library reference services and reference book publishers; Internet user expectations and satisfaction; and librarians…