Discusses the future of libraries and the necessary steps that need to be taken to be successful. Topics discussed include the process of change, the need to emphasize delivery systems rather than storage facilities, library services, the need for strategic planning, the role of technology, and library leadership. (11 references) (LRW)

Describes a study of secondary school library media specialists that was conducted to investigate the potential use of reference transaction measures. The use of the Reference Transaction Module is explained which used three different output measures: Transaction Analysis, Reference Completion Rate, and Transactions per Student. (LRW)

Discusses the value of professionally sanctioned guidelines for planning, implementing, and evaluating reference and information services in school libraries. A checklist is provided for assessing school library media reference services based in part on "Information Power." Results can be used for evaluating and upgrading existing…

Discussion of planning for reference service focuses on assessing past practices and statistics of past use to help plan for the future. Topics addressed include identifying an organizational goal and staff training, including professionals and nonprofessionals. (Contains 13 references.) (LRW)

Reviews trends in Chinese library and information education since 1978 and examines the influences of reforms of the economic system, advances in science and technology, and advances in the education system. Topics discussed include the development of Chinese information industries, and integration of the work of libraries and information centers.…

Describes three projects that won 1994 John Cotton Dana Public Relations Awards. The projects used less than $150 of the library budget, had no full-time public relations staff, and relied on volunteers. Guidelines for entering the 1995 awards contest and a list of all 12 winners from 1994 are given in sidebar articles. (KRN)

Describes the development of the Young People's Library in Las Vegas (Nevada) as a symbolic and literal bridge to the Lied Discovery Children's Museum. The roles in the design process of library administration, library personnel, and the architect are explored, and how this project addressed differences between the architect's artistic vision and…

Discussion of synthesized speech and voice recognition focuses on a forum that addressed the potential for speech technologies in libraries. Topics discussed by three contributors include possible library applications in technical processing, book receipt, circulation control, and database access; use by disabled and illiterate users; and problems…

Discussion of library outreach programs to senior citizens highlights the experiences of Driftwood Library (Lincoln City, Oregon) in using multimedia kits by Bi-Folkal that were designed for use in nursing homes, senior care centers, and retirement homes. Library staffing, funding, and planning needs are addressed. (LRW)

Discusses an increase in library users providing services for themselves that were formerly provided by library staff, and describes a study conducted at Ohio State University that measured (1) the public's acceptance of patron-initiated renewals and other capabilities, and (2) the resulting impact on staff activity. (five references) (LRW)

Explains a system designed by the Montgomery County Department of Public Libraries to develop objective data based on time costs to help make decisions regarding children's program resources. Budgets and library priorities are discussed, a form for gathering data on programs is provided, and suggestions for modifications for other libraries are…

Discussion of computerized information networks focuses on accessing information through the Internet virtual library. Topics discussed include the need for more electronic and printed directories; network standards for accessing information, including MARC, data elements required to locate information on a network, and approaches to searching.…

Discussion of ways libraries deal with patrons with various disabilities focuses on a project that investigated the effects of bibliographic instruction on mentally retarded adults using public libraries. Evaluation of the instruction by examining patrons' use of their library cards is described, and results of pretests and posttests are…

Reports results of a survey of copyright concerns that was conducted by the Association for Educational Communications and Technology. Areas addressed include video and television; copyright legislation; printed materials; music; audiovisual materials; and computer software. A checklist of proper copyright procedures is included. (six references)…

Describes strategies library director Dan Wilson used to keep the New Orleans Public Library ahead of budget shortfalls. Successful lobbying efforts to get a tax levy; growth in the library budget, technology, and services; changes in the service population; and Wilson's role as a facilitator are covered. (KRN)