Discusses issues and goals of the Conference. The importance of libraries is considered in terms of government responsibility, literacy, information technology, library resources, and library networks. (SW)

Discussion of choices posed by the current microtechnology revolution notes librarians' reluctance to utilize new technologies, ability of libraries to deal with success and fund new services, strategic decision facing libraries and professionals concerning essential "business" of libraries, new microcomputer portables and more powerful…

Describes some of the new roles and challenges librarians face with the development of new information technologies such as computer networks and document delivery systems. It is argued that librarians will increasingly fill the role of information intermediary as patrons take advantage of end-user systems. (12 references) (LAE)

Discusses strategies for research libraries to meet current demands and limitations through networks and resource sharing. Explored in terms of their importance to research library development are OCLC, the Research Libraries Group and their networks, the concept of a central resources pool, and the impact of the information industry. (SW)

Uses the example of obtaining an annual report for a special library to demonstrate that the same information is available in different locations, using different technologies, and at different costs. The importance of the management and cost-effective use of new information technologies as one of librarians' primary responsibilities is stressed.…

Examines the issues of a lifetime of service to portray the future as an opportunity for librarians to achieve a leadership role in the information age. Freedom of information versus privacy, censorship, user needs, and technological advancement are discussed in the context of intellectual freedom. Six references are listed. (RAA)

This essay explores issues arising as librarians and publishers exploit new technologies--economic constraints, different discipline predilections for formats of information, intransigence of some scholars to alter communication patterns--and examines future of electronic publication and how the scholar, the library, and publishing industry will…

This essay focuses on the effects of the information revolution and technological advancement on humans, noting themes in George Orwell's "1984," technology insecurity in libraries, technology and control, social interest regulation, ownership of telecommunications lines, technology and humanism, programming people, and effects on…

Reviews predictions from the 60s and 70s on the demise of the library in the age of electronic information technology, surveys the present situation of libraries within society, considers questions pertaining to libraries and librarians in the future, and discusses the impact of new information services and systems on library functions. (JL)

Briefly summarizes topics discussed within the theme of global information access at the annual conference of the Special Libraries Association, including information policy in foreign countries, copyright laws, the impact of library automation on access to information, and findings of a task force on the value of the information professional.…

Forecasts of the future of the public library highlight measures of success (quick information provision); service to remote users; an information infrastructure which includes smaller branch libraries; levels of service based on staff time required; fee-based, interactive research services; a new job title of "information specialist"; and book…

Describes problems in the current state of library automation, including too much jargon, excessive costs, excessive implementation time, and systems that don't work. An example is given of one public library's conservative approach to library automation which husbands resources for the maintenance and expansion of print collections and…

Discusses the final report of the American Library Association's Commission on Freedom and Equality of Access to Information, which addresses such issues as telecommunications, access to electronic and government information, preservation, illiteracy, censorship, copyright, libel, postal rates, and the future role of libraries in providing access…

Addresses the role of academic research libraries as affected by powerful economic and technological forces. The shift in emphasis from collections to access, planning the transition, objectives to enhance traditional library collections and services, and funding the transition are highlighted. Four references are provided. (EJS)

Discusses the librarian's role in bringing about an equilibrium between private and public information interests that serves both information owners and the public, and comments on copyright law, libraries as managers of copyrighted property, access versus ownership, the library advantage in document delivery, the value of copyright, and creating…