An annotated bibliography of reference books for school libraries from kindergarten through ninth grade is presented. Following brief sample lists of basic reference collections for primary, intermediate, and junior high school libraries are annotated bibliographies of encyclopedias, dictionaires, factbooks and yearbooks, indexes, atlases,…

The study and recommendations for improved library service in Vermont are based on accepted library standards as well as a consideration of the state's unique pattern of library development. It is concluded that because the regional offices have no control over local libraries the concept of a larger unit of service does not exist, and it is…

Discusses issues relating to the reliability, validity, utility, and information value of unobtrusive testing of library reference services; provides suggestions for practical applications of these criteria; applies study findings to library decision making and planning; and identifies topics for further methodological refinement. (Author/CLB)

The Peer Reference Counseling Program at Valdosta State University (Georgia) is a program designed to provide students with a unique opportunity to work at the Reference Desk at Odum Library. This program employs minority students and trains them to work at the Reference Desk answering basic reference questions and utilizing as well as…

This collection of statistical data on school library media programs for 1997-98 is designed to assist local education agencies (LEAs) in examining their library media collections and staff according to the recommendations in "Standards for School Library Media Programs in Maryland." Tables present the following data by public school LEA…

This paper presents an annotated bibliography of 69 articles published in the 1990s that examine the impact of technology on reference service in public, school, and academic libraries. The paper is organized in the following seven parts, each dealing with a different type of application of technology: (1) "General Change Caused by…

Discusses the implementation of Web-based online public access catalogs in academic libraries. Highlights include infrastructure issues, including the server, network issues, and desktop workstation issues; recommended minimal desktop configuration; reference services; staff training; cataloging and access; workflow of acquisition and processing;…

Includes three articles: one reviews top stories from "Library Journal" regarding budget problems, salaries and recruitment, privacy, legal issues, virtual reference, electronic books, distance education, special libraries, and scholarly innovation; one discusses school library issues, including layoffs, Internet concerns, and…

Description of the use of CD-ROM technology at the Vanderbilt University libraries focuses on the impact on library staff and on students and faculty. Hardware and databases are discussed, training of student assistants and end users is described, and patron and faculty survey results are reviewed. (LRW)

Discusses scientific communication; the information needs and information-seeking behavior of scientists; the role of the science librarian, including collection development, resource sharing, and information literacy and bibliographic instruction; and document delivery, including interlibrary loan and technological awareness. (LRW)

Suggests ways of using personal computers in special libraries, including online searching; CD-ROM networks; reference work; current awareness services; press cuttings services; selective dissemination of information; local databases; object linking and embedding; cataloging; acquisitions; circulation; serials control; interlibrary loan; space…

Describes a survey of library users at Hofstra University that was conducted to determine how well end-user search services satisfy information needs and the extent to which users apply concepts and techniques emphasized in the training program. The impact of thesaurus use is examined and modifications in training are recommended. (four…

Describes a study of secondary school library media specialists in Maine and Pennsylvania that was conducted to establish a baseline of data relating to the use of CD-ROM databases for reference purposes. Topics addressed include database titles; networking; staffing concerns; budget; funding; attitudes toward CD-ROMs; and training and curriculum…

Three articles discuss the issue of the mediator's role in the library of the electronic age. Topics addressed include computer-assisted instruction; online catalogs; computer networks; professional identity; reference service and bibliographic instruction; CD-ROMs; online systems; personal home microcomputers; Internet and list servers;…

Discusses three major roles of the academic library reference department manager: managing reference personnel, including training, communication, performance evaluation, and conflict resolution; implementing new technologies, including assessment of users' needs; and leadership and planning for future changes, including strategic planning,…