Discussion of remote access to library services focuses on proxy servers as a method for remote access, based on experiences at Saint Mary's University (Halifax). Topics include Internet protocol user validation; browser-directed proxies; server software proxies; vendor alternatives for validating remote users; and Internet security issues. (LRW)

Reviews the evolution of public libraries, the origins of today's labor movement, and the role of the AFL-CIO/ALA (American Federation of Labor (AFL)-Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO)/American Library Association (ALA))Joint Committee on Library Service to Labor Groups. Defines misunderstandings and lack of trust between libraries and…

Examines factors that have contributed to the development of measures that can determine the impact of library services, including evaluation approaches, demands for public sector accountability, and government activities aimed at determining service outcomes. Discusses impacts of community information services based on a study by the Institute of…

Discusses the need to focus on customer service in libraries. Topics include motivating factors, including the value of library services as judged by the users; attributes of customer service; categories of customer service; identifying users; and questions to ask library staff to help evaluate their customer service. (LRW)

Provides background on federal literacy programs and legislation. Proceedings of a national literacy forum for state libraries are summarized, and priority issues identified by participants are listed. The importance of the library role is emphasized. (MES)

Discusses the use of technology to enhance literacy programs in libraries and suggests ways for librarians to increase their understanding of potential applications of technology to their programs. Technological tools are briefly described, and the activities of several public library literacy technology projects are summarized. (three references)…

Description of HyperCard, a software package that runs on Macintosh microcomputers, focuses on its use in the Apple Computer, Inc., Library as a user guide to the library. Examples of screen displays are given, and a list of resources is included to help use and understand HyperCard more completely. (LRW)

This discussion of the interrelationship between libraries and learning focuses on the development of university libraries. Changing attitudes toward students' involvement in the learning process and expanding curricula are cited as reasons for the growth of university libraries. The professionalization of librarianship and increased participation…

Discusses measurement and evaluation as ways to justify reference work to users and library administration. A trivia contest is cited as a way to achieve public recognition, and measuring use of reference materials rather than the number of reference questions is recommended. User surveys and other measures of reference activity and value are also…

Examines changes in the newsmaking process following the introduction of an electronic newspaper library system. Finds that, although all journalists reported using clip files, 16 percent did not use the electronic library when it was installed. (RS)

Examines the role of library reference services in the enhancement of cultural literacy. The discussion covers the relationship between the extent of cultural literacy possessed by reference librarians and the quality of librarian patron interactions, and the role of reference sources in the cultural literacy of librarians and patrons. (53…

This study examined the influence of (1) the setting of the reference interview on the interaction and (2) accuracy and the librarian's behavior on the success of the reference interview. Tables display correlations between the interpersonal, interviewing and listening, and searching skills of the librarian with the patron's willingness to return…

Describes the role of the information specialist in a corporate information center and discusses the three areas that define this role--collection, access, and service. Advantages and disadvantages of being a corporate information specialist are considered. (one reference) (MES)

Describes the experiences of a librarian who assists with prison law library outreach for the Minneapolis State Law Library. Topics addressed include the importance of good reference interviews; legal reference versus legal advice; confidentiality; and the rewards of public service. (LRW)

Examines libraries' policies of keeping patron records private and confidential. Addresses the idea that libraries use their automated systems to retain and use patron data to develop and improve library services. Describes uses of patron data that can help libraries develop targeted services to users to better meet their information needs. (JMV)