Discusses the emergence of general audience digital libraries (GADLs), a context that represents a hybrid of both traditional information retrieval, using primarily bibliographic resources provided by database vendors, and popular information retrieval such as public search systems on the Web. Reports findings of a study investigating end-user…

This study assessed undergraduate student performance in the production of bibliographic citations. A total of 1,958 papers from 2 private liberal arts colleges and 2 large state universities were examined. Data were analyzed by completeness of citations, subject, level, length of bibliography, campus, and type of material cited. (six references)…

Discusses affirmative action strategies in academic libraries that have attempted to improve the percentage of minorities in librarianship. The importance of stressing the value of greater cultural diversity within the academic library is discussed, and specific tools that can be used to increase the number of minorities are described. (39…

Research has shown that independent reading, both in school and out, is associated with gains in reading achievement. Principals can play a critical role by promoting voluntary reading to teachers, students, parents, and the community. (17 references) (MLF)

Describes the development and operation of an electronic serial, "The Public-Access Computer Systems Review." Its evolution from the Public-Access Computer Systems Forum--a computer conference on BITNET run by the University of Houston libraries--is explained, and two sidebars describe other conferences and electronic serials available…

Three articles address issues that relate to libraries and the environment. Highlights include recycling projects; buying recycled paper products and other ecology-minded purchasing ideas; energy-efficient libraries; indoor pollution problems; a list of environmental information sources; designing library buildings; and activities that libraries…

Four articles discuss various aspects of the integration of the seven USMARC bibliographic formats. Areas discussed include the handling of additions and subtractions, handling of serials and mixed media, planning for the coordination of the implementation of format integration, and the results of an operational test comparing the current and…

One way to channel support to schools from local businesses is to invite them to donate funds to school libraries. Soliciting their assistance also increases the number of supporters within the community. (MLF)

Suggests questions that should be asked by those considering the purchase of a library system and identifies sources of information on library systems. Lists of questions that can be asked of online vendors and users to evaluate any system are provided. (12 references) (CLB)

Elaborates on techniques used to obtain and maintain computer equipment. Suggestions include: conduct a needs assessment, improve staff communication, have written guidelines, be cost conscious, inspire student assistants, manage time effectively, keep accurate use records, practice hands-on management, and keep informed of current developments.…

Describes a U.S. Department of Education program that provides information technology funding to libraries and information centers. The discussion covers grant categories, award criteria, first round results, and application details. A list of approved proposals in the categories of networking equipment, joint-use, services to institutions, and…

Reviews 25 reference sources published in 1987 or 1988 in several formats--books, CD-ROM products, online databases, and government documents--and recommended by librarians. Materials in the following areas are included: general reference; business; science and technology; fine arts and literature; history; medicine and health; and social sciences…

Presents potential questions to be asked by the prospective teacher-librarian during an employment interview. The questions address the following areas: role of the teacher-librarian, access to the resource center, clerical and technical assistants, resource center budget, discipline, staff evaluation, selection of materials, type of community,…

Discusses issues relating to recent introductions of CD-ROM technologies in libraries and considerations that have motivated libraries to choose networking CD-ROMs over the standalone approach. Factors discussed include cost effectiveness, the flexibility of the networking approach, and performance considerations. A glossary of terms is provided.…

Provides an introduction to expert systems and offers guidelines for their use in library applications. Areas discussed include appropriate domains for expert systems in libraries, a brief description of how such systems work, and criteria for selection. Sources of sample programs and tutorials are identified. (three references) (CLB)