Describes a session on information retrieval systems that planned to discuss relevance measures with Web-based information retrieval; retrieval system performance and evaluation; probabilistic independence of index terms; vector-based models; metalanguages and digital objects; how users assess the reliability, timeliness and bias of information;…

Describes a library media game for grades four and five that is centered around books and is based on the television show "Who Wants To Be a Millionaire?". Procedures for the game are explained, and examples of questions from simple to more difficult, with answers, are presented. (LRW)

An academic reference librarian presents observations concerning the influence of technology on students' habits of information retrieval, their mindsets, their perceptions of research, and the effect these factors have on learning. Suggests that the prevailing mindset must be changed from searching for an easier, better means of information…

Discusses the changing shift in education, including learning resources centers, from a production to a consumer mind-set, focusing on the activity of learning rather than teaching. Highlights include learning communities; personal mastery; developing a vision; the interconnectedness of organizations; harmony and balance, similar to feng shui; and…

A study tested a model of intraorganizational power in the libraries of 256 liberal arts colleges, focusing on power variables, environmental variables, technology level, and bases of power variables. Results indicate that technology has a direct, yet slight, influence on the bases of power. However, the overall model was not statistically…

The basic philosophy of organization and management of a learning resource center is to maximize the effectiveness/efficiency for the use of all resources and establish proper management control and cost effectiveness. Qualities should include accountability, consistent service, reliable professional consulting, and standardized procedures. A…

Describes the ILPO (Information Literacy Planning Overview) that combines facets of information literacy including critical thinking, problem solving, and information technology into a planning document to support teachers and teacher-librarians. Discusses the whole-school approach to integrating information literacy into the curriculum that has…

Considers issues regarding the place of information professionals in organizations where change processes are technologically driven or aided by information technology. Presents a case study of the International Service for National Agricultural Research in the Netherlands that showed library managers must facilitate change while ensuring that…

Discusses the need for students to become more aware of other cultures as the population becomes more diverse. Provides examples of activities that teachers and library media specialists can use to expand student's cultural awareness and explains The Diversity Game that can be adapted to community demographics. (LRW)

Argues that California's low fourth-grade National Assessment of Educational Progress reading scores between 1987 and 1992 were not related to the whole-language approach to reading instruction introduced in 1987. Suggests that low scores are caused by limited student access to books in school and public libraries. (Contains 36 references.) (PKP)

Describes two studies that investigated factors affecting the demands for undergraduate courses in information and library studies: one a survey of students at The Robert Gordon University (Scotland) and one a survey of secondary school students in Scotland. Concludes that the profession should focus on undergraduate education and make career…

Describes the development of criteria and guidelines for merit salary increases at the Colorado State University library. Discusses the use of the criteria for performance evaluation and results of a survey of the library faculty regarding their opinions on the overall effectiveness of the criteria. (Author/LRW)

Discusses trends in regional accreditation commissions of higher education, including a greater emphasis on outcomes assessment, distance education, information literacy, and encouragement for collaboration, innovation, and experimentation in teaching and learning. Makes recommendations for academic libraries. (Author/LRW)

Describes an information literacy skills assessment project by California State University as part of an accountability process. Highlights include information competence; a qualitative study using information scenarios; capturing what students do when they search for information; and ethnographic data. (LRW)

Describes various infoshops across the United States: these centers offer alternative materials; are collaboratively run and staffed by volunteers; are typically founded/run by young people; and often serve as venues for concerts, screenings, and political discussions. Suggests libraries might take inspiration from infoshops, and serve coffee,…