This overview of the development of a system of library services for the blind in one union republic of the USSR describes the centralized network of special libraries which serve as the focal point of systems providing services at the regional and local levels, and suggests some possible future developments. (RAA)

Addresses issues which bear on the question of whether the membership or the leadership best decides appropriate goals for ALA activities. ALA's attempt to set organizational goals democratically is examined for differences and similarities between its leaders and members. (RAA)

Explains how having students write "found poems" by using the card catalog helps introduce the card catalog to students while also serving as an introduction to poetry. (JL)

This simulated interaction between a human and a microcomputer is presented as an example of one way in which a computer could be used to report data and results from research studies on particular topics in school librarianship. A brief discussion of the example is included. (JL)

Describes student-produced simulations of four online services--Lockheed DIALOG, BLAISE MARC, BLAISE MEDLINE, and SDC. Intended to teach keyboard use, basic commands, and more advanced techniques, the programs are written in BASIC and transferable to a wide range of computers. Several sample displays and seven references are provided. (RBF)

Describes the costs, programing languages, limitations, and capabilities of micro, mini, and mainframe computers, as well as specific computer projects and storage techniques, including disks, floppies, and videodiscs. Also discussed are links, networks, and computer features for libraries. A glossary and 22 references are provided. (RBF)

Describes the efforts of various religious and political groups to censor curriculum and library materials. The author contends that censorship is motivated by the fear of change and a distrust of pluralism. The American Library Association's role in defending the constitutional right to free expression is discussed. (AM)

Provides an annotated list of the standard discographical reference works and other discographies which have appeared since the publication of the standard tools. Classical music and popular music are covered. Also included is a list of discographies and guides of use for music librarians engaged in developing or maintaining record collections.…

Presents method for familiarizing intermediate foreign language student with grammatical concepts through library research. Students are assigned to seek examples of language presented in class using recent periodical literature. Particularly beneficial for students intending to become foreign language teachers. (Author/BK)

Argues that librarians should be committed to ensure access to knowledge, adhere to encouraging users to be knowledge self-sufficient, avoid outmoded models of professionalism, and not feel threatened by other information dissemination groups. Included are 26 references. (RAA)

Comparing help-wanted ads to the number of library school graduates seems to indicate a relationship between the two which helps define the library job market. (Author)

Describes the first national conference of the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) held in Louisville, Kentucky, September 25-28, 1980. The historical development of the conference as well as its goals, program, proceedings, and exhibits are covered. (BK)

Attractive features of the videodisc, a storage medium of digital and visual information, include large storage capacity, low cost, rapid access, and ease of duplication. Widespread adoption of the videodisc will be determined by availability of appropriate software and funding, and public demand and perceptions about its advantages over other…

Describes a program of language arts skills for students in grades five through seven, which focuses on word knowledge, comprehension, research and library skills, critical thinking, and oral and silent reading skills, while moving the students toward the independence to freely use these skills for their own purposes. (HTH)

Examines an organizational model which is innovative in grouping the library and one or more other information/communication functions under a senior administrator. Present university structures are deemed ill equipped to cope successfully with modern pressures and rapid change. Eight examples of the communication model are examined. (Author/RAA)