Poses four issues concerning library catalogs and cataloging and presents suggestions toward resolution of these problems. Cost considerations, cataloging system design, the catalog's role in shaping service users receive and those they are encouraged to seek, and contradictory requirements of the catalog are highlighted. (EJS)

Discussion of choices posed by the current microtechnology revolution notes librarians' reluctance to utilize new technologies, ability of libraries to deal with success and fund new services, strategic decision facing libraries and professionals concerning essential "business" of libraries, new microcomputer portables and more powerful…

Reports results of 1983 survey of 25 public libraries and 1981 survey of 11 public libraries, both of which focused on facets of online information services--user fees, databases, documentation, equipment, miscellaneous services, and subject areas searched. The 1983 questionnaire and seven sources are appended. (EJS)

Discussion of fee versus free question for public library services includes definitions of access to libraries and access to information; reasons for charging fees; library users (adults, students, children); effects of public lending right and distributed publishing on recreational reading; and who should pay for services. Five sources are given.…

Discusses the introduction of computers and appropriate software (computer-assisted instruction, computer games, open-ended programs) into the public library children's room. Computer literacy as a public library goal, specific objectives of a program at Oakville Public Library (Ontario), and library role in the information age are highlighted.…

Addresses extent to which public libraries have served needs of organized labor over past 50 years and examines factors that have influenced services offered and how libraries have responded. Role played by AFL-CIO/ALA Joint Committee on Library Service to Labor Groups and future direction of services are noted. (22 references) (EJS)

Describes genesis of New York Metropolitan Reference and Research Library Agency (METRO) and the interlibrary services it offers. Laws and grants, cooperative acquisitions, continuing education for library staff, and suggestions for planning cooperatives (include all types of libraries, develop effective patterns of communication, develop shared…

Develops model of the reference interview which explicitly incorporates human information processing, particularly schema ideas presented by Marvin Minsky and other theorists in cognitive processing and artificial intelligence. Questions are raised concerning use of content analysis of transcribed verbal protocols as methodology for studying…

Discusses results of mail survey eliciting 180 responses from libraries concerning reference use of online databases. Reference database users profile, activity levels and online use, acceptance by librarians of online ready reference searching, administrative considerations, print materials and online availability, and ready reference questions…

Summary of survey of the American Library Association Reference and Adult Services Division (RASD) members concerning attitudes toward, need for, and preferences in acquiring information on automated information retrieval services. (KP)

This report provides summary information about public libraries in the 50 states and the District of Columbia for state fiscal year (FY) 2003. It covers service measures such as access to the Internet, number of users of electronic resources, number of Internet terminals used by the general public, reference transactions, public service hours,…

School librarians can be an important resource for school administrators, provided that the right relationship is in place between them. In this article, the author reports on the critical points emphasized with librarians/media specialists in a recent panel presentation on their changing roles: (1) the importance of building ongoing relationships…

This document provides a guide for writing a library technology plan. Three elements to consider are summarized: vision, mission, goals and objectives; establishing a committee; and services drive technology acquisition. Required components of an approved technology plan are listed, and a technology plan outline is presented that describes the…

This videotape is intended to help library staff examine assumptions commonly made about people and realize that these assumptions can create barriers to outstanding public service. Designed for front-line and part-time staff, this 20-minute videotape showcases the basics of diversity training in the library. It uses scenarios taken directly from…