This report includes data furnished by public library directors to the Wyoming State Library and gives a statistical picture of the condition of public libraries throughout the state for fiscal year 1998 (July 1997 through June 1998). Information is taken from a national survey of the Federal-State Cooperative System for Public Library Data.…

This serial issue contains nine articles all on the subject of "changing practice," i.e., innovative practices of rural English teachers in the Bread Loaf Rural Teacher Network. "Byte-ing into Medieval Literature" (John Fyler) describes an online conference on medieval literature for rural high school students. "Literacy…

The Migrant Education Program (MEP) and the Migrant Head Start (MHS) program have served millions of migrant children, but little is known about program outcomes. The Government Accounting Office examined: (1) MEP and MHS goals, operations, clients, and services; (2) coordination of MEP and MHS services within and between programs by the…

This sourcebook profiles approximately 80 programs that support the redefinition, assessment, and/or enhancement of quality in community services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Direct service programs, however, are not included. The programs and activities described are subsumed under the following broad categories: (1) statewide…

A case study in a rural Australian township sought to determine the nature of the interactive productivity between the local networks in a community. Participants were chosen based on recommendations of community members concerning to whom they turn for help, advice, or information. Community interactivity was recorded using interviews,…

Discusses the background and functions of the Southeast Metropolitan Board of Cooperative Services (SEMBCS), which provides a broad range of educational opportunities to the residents of southeast Denver, Colorado, with emphasis on the activities of the Media Services program, including media processing and a consolidated film library. (JL)

Examines computer-mediated communication (CMC) in higher education, particularly the evaluation of network resources for course-related student communication. Presents case studies of e-mail seminars in Scottish language studies and music, demonstrates the significance of emphasizing process over outcome, and discusses factors affecting CMC usage:…

Analyzes examples of parent-teacher talk and printed materials sent to parents of students attending various secondary schools in and around a large city. The article focuses on extracts in which responsibility for student surveillance is negotiated. Findings indicate that parents, teachers, and students regulate themselves and each other through…

In a time of fiscal belt tightening, many states will hesitate to launch new multimillion-dollar distance education network projects. Instead they will concentrate on regulatory initiatives to stimulate the development of affordable advanced universal service by the private sector. Discusses the limitations of state regulatory strategies in the…

Discusses issues and trends affecting Canadian academic libraries that were major themes at the 1996 Canadian Library Association annual conference in Halifax (Nova Scotia). Topics include government funding decreases; restructuring in education and library services; consortia; library cooperation and collaboration; computer networks; interlibrary…

Geared for school library media specialists whose centers are in the early stages of automation or conversion to a new system, this article focuses on major components of media center automation: circulation control; online public access catalogs; machine readable cataloging; retrospective conversion of print catalog cards; and computer networks…

Discussion of the use of academic libraries by public borrowers focuses on policies developed at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Highlights include library networks and identity problems; access to materials; fee-based reference services; and requiring patrons to register a credit card to be used for replacement materials and fines. (LRW)

Discussion of multimedia networked learning products focuses on the development of materials for a class at Queen Margaret College (Scotland). Examines cognitive issues, logistical procedures, support issues, ownership of materials, and management issues. (Author/LRW)

Explores mentoring as a means of promoting spiritual growth for women in a congregational setting. Surveys the roles and activities of mentors with special attention to utilization in business and educational environments. Proposes four likely components of a mentoring relationship. (MJP)

High performing schools for young adolescents are developmentally responsive, academically excellent, and socially equitable. Necessary reform elements include professional development, technical assistance, coordination, networks, data-driven decision making, enlightened leadership, improved teacher preparation, a well-informed public, and…