Describes a pilot project at the Muncie (Indiana) Public Library that was developed to teach disadvantaged children basic Internet and writing skills. Topics include the need for reading and writing abilities and information-literacy skills; learning processes; computer skills; word-processing skills; and report-writing skills using a template.…

Discusses online teaching and how it compares to traditional face to face teaching. Topics include designing Web-based classes; the faculty perspective, including determining learning outcomes, time commitment, accountability, and library resources; and the student perspective, including expectations of faculty, time commitment, and technical…

Considers the school library media center as an information learning laboratory. Topics include information literacy; Kuhlthau's Information Search Process model; inquiry theory and approach; discovery learning; process skills of laboratory science; the information scientist; attitudes of media specialists, teachers, and students; displays and Web…

Considers the effects of an electronic environment on students and the role of the school library media specialist in student achievement. Topics include how students learn differently as a result of computer access; interactivity in mass media; political aspects of educational technology; and whether technological changes are good or bad. (LRW)

Discussion of Web-based online public access catalogs (OPACs) focuses on a review of six Web OPAC interfaces in use in academic libraries in the United Kingdom. Presents a checklist and guidelines of important features and functions that are currently available, including search strategies, access points, display, links, and layout. (Author/LRW)

Discusses the role of libraries in the development of distance education in India since 1962, focusing on the acquisition, management, and provision of information services to adult learners. The needs of distance learners, and problems faced by open universities trying to fulfill those needs, are examined. Resource sharing and networking may help…

Summarizes attempts to define and measure quality and effectiveness in academic libraries, from traditional evaluative studies to Total Quality Management and new research on user-defined criteria. Topics include models of organizational evaluation; measures of library service; academic libraries and higher education effectiveness, including…

Discussion of the role of advancing technology in legal education looks at the administrative and organizational questions it poses, solutions developed at the Duke University (North Carolina) law school, and new possible roles for library directors in managing and planning the growing integration of information technology into all aspects of…

Surveyed stakeholder groups in the New Zealand university system to determine each groups' criteria for measuring university library performance. Compared responses of resource allocators, senior library staff, other library staff, academic staff, and graduate and undergraduate students, and found that the groups have different perspectives on…

Examines some of the trends affecting library school students today. Discusses distance education; accreditation; certification and credentialing; specialized master's degree programs; reappearance of undergraduate degree programs; special libraries courses; library educators; and continuing education. (AEF)

Provides an example of how libraries can play an instrumental role in breaking the information barrier by providing good, positive, practical information to help people cope with disabilities. Lists several types of resources for information on disabilities. Discusses how librarians can make resources more accessible to individuals and the need…

Compares accredited library schools in number of students and faculty; faculty/student ratio; percentage of students receiving scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships; tuition and fees in-state and out-of-state; cost per credit hour in-state and out-of-state; number or required course hours; and minimum time to complete MLS and highlights…

Describes a collaborative program between librarians and faculty at Ball State University (Indiana) that designed a tiered approach to building nursing students' research skills to ensure that students have the necessary information literacy skills. Highlights include information literacy competencies; Web-based courses; electronic resources for…

Discusses the role of administrators and media specialists in the successful use of technology in schools and explains the TSSA (Technology Standards for School Administrators) project. Topics include hardware needs; applications, including software and Internet connectivity; teachers' technology use; and professional development for staff,…

Baby boomers are epitomised by the phrase "wanting it now". This large group of the population is better educated, more technologically literate, generally wealthier than any previous generation and has high expectations of quality services and products. Just as they have led other social revolutions, baby boomers are expected to revolutionise the…