This opinion paper is followed by five comments. (PF)

Presents a theoretical model of documentation which strives to include all potential users and their varying information needs, including nonreaders, through an analysis of the system of documentation. (JVP)

Reviews the goals and methods of research and development in documentation, stressing research which aims to improve the communication between the information user and source. Research is discussed within the context of the documentation system rather than by specific results. (JVP)

Outlines some advances in information services based on computer and communications technology. When implemented with suitable caution, this electronic marketplace of ideas can expand the availability of information and aid in its efficient dissemination. (JMF)

Methods of obtaining information which were developed by the Prussian General Staff (military) could be adapted to reference interviews. (JAB)

Examines the possible role of the chief information officer in universities and corporations, and the ways in which librarians need to restructure their professional role to qualify for the chief information officer function. (CLB)

Discusses Portuguese information sector (computers, libraries, specialized information services), which is described as very underdeveloped in comparison with other European countries. Highlights include computer applications in information services including national industrial database, INFOLNETI; access to international databases; official…

This article summarizes the 1986 Midwinter Meeting of the American Library Association (ALA) held in Chicago, Illinois, January 18-23. Discussion covers debate over Lacy Report, censorship, ALA's financial situation, divestiture and the ALA endowment, debate among ALA candidates, federal matters, continuing education, service to members, and…

Summary of American Library Association's (ALA) 1986 Midwinter Meeting highlights administrative reports, legislative update, government publishing update, finances and operations (the long range outlook), the Oxford Project, library education, standards, issues and ideas, accreditation project, toward a White House conference, aspiring ALA…

Addresses seven changes in role of the information professional--role as part of information transfer chain, need to harness technology and management tools, shift to individual-oriented information services, need for new directions in education, changing image of information professional, ethical commitment, increased international awareness.…

In this second of two installments, a discussion of role of information science (IS) in numerical databases (NDBs) and vice versa highlights two elements of IS needed to develop NDBs: technical (hardware, software, artificial intelligence, degree of database reliability); social (man-machine interface, social infrastructure). Research requirements…

Discussion of problems with fuzzy subsets in document retrieval highlights attempts to invent a system of weighted fuzzy queries in which weights correspond to relative importance of each term in query as whole, and use of Kantor's Logic for Retrieval as an alternative to Boolean queries. Six references are cited. (EJS)

Reviews selected effects of information technology development on the Third World, suggesting that more positive effects lie in social and cultural realms, while economic aspects favor industrialized countries. Social and cultural impacts of information technology are discussed and effect of changing technology on national information policies is…

Information in this directory of Association for Library and Information Science Education (ALISE) member library schools represents 66 Institutional, 19 Associate Institutional, and 7 International Affiliate Institutional members of ALISE. Officers, committees, interest groups, liaison representatives, objectives, priorities, and bylaws for 1985…

Discusses two topics which dominated the 12th American Society for Information Science meeting held May 22-25, 1983: pattern of growth and change in online industry and educating the information specialist versus training the end user. Opinions of several speakers are given. (EJS)