Describes the MyLibrary concept of personalization or customization of library user Web pages. Discusses benefits for libraries and patrons, as well as technical issues to consider. Highlights personalization projects at Cornell and UCLA. A sidebar gives a list of online sources. (AEF)

Considers the use of the phrase "customer service" with reference to libraries and their users' needs, expectations, and satisfaction. Librarians' perceptions of those being served, and the public's view of library workers, are discussed, and a sidebar examines the history of fee-based subscription libraries. (LRW)

Describes the use of docents at the Denver Public Library and explains how to develop a successful volunteer docent program. Discusses their educational background; duties, including training patrons in computer use; cooperation of and acceptance by the professional staff; administrative support; and improved customer service. (LRW)

Presents guidelines developed at Cornell University for selection of compact-disc databases for public use in libraries. Criteria are suggested for the following areas: (1) collection development; (2) administrative considerations; (3) vendor considerations; (4) search capabilities; and (5) ease of use. One reference is listed. (MES)

Examines the possible role of the chief information officer in universities and corporations, and the ways in which librarians need to restructure their professional role to qualify for the chief information officer function. (CLB)

Discusses the impact of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) on the library profession and suggests ways by which library employees can become role models in their reactions to colleagues with AIDS. A resolution on freedom from AIDS screening for library employees that was adopted by the American Library Association and additional resources…

Describes the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law by President Bush in 1990, and explains possible impacts of the legislation on libraries. The goals of the ADA regarding people with physical or mental disabilities are explained, compliance to prevent discrimination is discussed, and possible litigation is mentioned.…

Discusses debates that still continue over the value of card catalogs versus online catalogs and other library technology. Highlights include user opinions and needs, libraries being ahead of users in the use of technology, the information age, the value of cataloging, full-text searching, meaning extraction, dataspaces, and the Internet. (LRW)

Presents issues regarding Internet literacy and the attitudes of Internet users versus nonusers. Describes how the Internet meets administrators' and librarians' needs, and highlights the Internet's effect on budgeting, staff productivity, and image. Notes the necessity for Internet training for library personnel to interact effectively with…

Discusses full-text databases and whether existing aggregator databases are meeting user needs. Topics include the need for better search interfaces; concepts of quality research and information retrieval; information overload; full text in electronic journal collections versus aggregator databases; underrepresentation of certain disciplines; and…

Summarizes the suggestions made by bilingual professionals in an intercultural workshop aimed at teaching public librarians in Chicago how to meet the needs of immigrant populations. The discussion covers the unique cultural backgrounds of Asian, Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and Polish populations, and the implications for effective library services.…

Describes several Peace Corps volunteers' experiences in establishing libraries in developing countries. Discusses how the service teaches global diversity and trains librarians to recognize needs and address them. Presents recommendations by returned Peace Corps volunteers for developing sustainable library plans for communities in developing…

Discusses results of a national survey that was designed to describe the current consumer market for public library services and Internet services. Investigated the reasons they used each service, the decision criteria used when choosing one provider over the other, and how they evaluated the performance of each. (LRW)

Describes a program developed at the San Francisco Public Library to allow homeless residents to apply for library cards, and discusses concerns that had to be addressed, including loss or damage of materials, overdue materials, residency requirements, and state and local funding requirements. Cooperation with public and private service providers…

Describes the role of librarians at National Public Radio, emphasizing the immediacy and accuracy needed at this special library. Discusses journalism, reference materials, clipping files, customer satisfaction, preservation concerns, and funding. (LRW)